Released today: Clockwinder who wouldn’t say no, the life of David Taylor MP

Blog by Katherine Hannah
Clockwinder Who Wouldn't Say No, by Paul Flynn, is released today and currently available for £20. Among the scandals and scoundrels of Westminster, David Taylor was a shining light: respected and admired by his constituents, his parliamentary colleagues and his political opponents alike. The shock and sadness of his sudden and untimely death on Boxing Day 2009 reverberated well beyond Westminster. A unique parliamentary craftsman, master of the telling question and fiercely loyal to his constituents, Taylor was a man ever undaunted by executive power as he pursued his many causes. In this biography, written with the cooperation of David’s family, his former colleague Paul Flynn paints an affectionate portrait of a supremely resourceful backbencher. A man of considerable integrity who, whilst loyal to the core values of the Labour Party, eschewed ambition or ministerial office, avoided self-aggrandisement and empty publicity, and dedicated himself to helping push through necessary reform with audacious good humour and penetrating parliamentary debate. This sensitive and insightful biography is a fitting testament to a much-loved man and an exemplary parliamentarian. Speaker John Bercow described David Taylor as ‘An excellent example of a fearless, independent-minded and articulate member of the house’ Paul Flynn is the labour MP for Newport West. He is the author of How to be an MP