Philip Gould

A collection of reminisces of the influential Labour party strategist and polling advisor who recently died following a long battle with cancer Elections expert, Dennis Kavanagh, brings together a stellar cast of contributors to consider Philip Gould's legacy. Gould was a key figure in the creation of New Labour, helping the party to win three successive general elections and in the process changing the political agenda. Drawing on focus groups to interpret the public mood he developed political strategies to position the party and craft political messages. He helped to rewrite the way election campaigns are conducted. In addition The Unfinished Life of Philip Gould will also have a preface from Philips' daughter, aspiring politician Counciller Georgia Gould offering a unique insight into her father's life and showing her family's support for this important collection. 'He wasn't just my pollster, he was my pathfinder.' - Tony Blair 'Philip was a pathbreaking political strategist as well as a warm, funny, engaging, deeply emotional and loving human being.' - Ed Miliband 'His last battle was extraordinarily brave; but it was when he opened his arms to death, and looked it in the face, that he shook everyone he knew and a host of friends he never met.' - Andrew Marr 'What motivated him was a genuine, passionate desire to improve his world.' - George Osborne