Free Radical

By Tony Benn

Book Overview

In 2001, Tony Benn, one of the most influential socialists in Europe, retired from the House of Commons in order to 'devote more time to politics'. He has since carried out a huge programme of public meetings in Britain and abroad and been a regular broadcaster. He also writes a weekly column for the Morning Star. Free Radical is a collection of the best of these columns, which reflect the breadth of Benn's political concerns over both domestic and international politics. Benn writes with knowledge and passion about the importance of democracy, internationalism and social justice. He argues that a renewal of the Labour party is needed so that it becomes an instrument for the improvement of our lives and an active partner in a new global movement that works for peace. Tony Benn, born in London in 1925, is a former Cabinet Minister and Chairman of the Labour Party. He served as an MP for over fifty years and is the author of fifteen books, including his published diaries covering the period 1940-2001. He was a visiting professor at the London School of Economics from 2001 until 2003. Dare to be a Daniel, his childhood memoirs plus a selection of essays and speeches in the House of Commons, will be published this autumn.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0826474004
• ISBN13: 9780826474001
• Release Date: June 2004
• Publisher: Continnuum-3PL
• Length: 260 Pages
• Weight: 0.57 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 5.0" x 8.0"

Customer Reviews

a decent collection of his better articles

Not all contemporary, but as the title says a decent collection of his writings about 21st century politics in Britain.

Words of Sincerity

It is always edifying to have the good fortune to be able to listen to (or read) this wise and kind man. Tony Benn has always been the contradiction in terms of a "sincere politician". He has been a steadfast champion of justice and an honest voice in the British House of Commons. He gave up his peerage and all the priveleges that accompanied it to devote his life to speaking the truth and fighting for the weak, the forgotten, the abused and those without a voice. Often this has been a fight that he has had to undertake alone. It is undoubtedly the greatest tragedy not only for Britain but for the world that Tony Benn did not challenge the leadership of the 'Labour'party (if this party still deserves this name). He would have been the greatest British prime minister in history. There would also have been much more justice, decency and fair play in the world. Even though it is perhaps too late for this meek, wise and slightly ageing man to ever become the leader of his country, what he says is still of great value.