I remember David as an honourable man , courteous to those who didn't share his political views , passionate about fighting for his constituents (I never heard him speak in Parliament without namechecking his constituency) and the issues which he cared about and despite there being a Conservative government in power for well over half his time in Parliament chose not to seek advancement there. In fact I was once at an event in Southend when he was interrupted by a mobile phone call. He looked at it and ignored and silenced it , saying "it's only the Whips Office , they only ever call me when they want something so I'm sure they'll call back if it's urgent !". It's a cruel irony that a man who treated political opponents with politeness and reasoned argument should such a fate from those who don't respect the democratic process.
Posted by Robert Edge
