Politics On the Edge

The memoir’s appeal lies in Stewart's transparency and willingness to critique not only his own political party but the entire system. He discusses his motivations for entering politics and how his idealism met with the realities of bureaucracy, party loyalty, and ideological rigidity. Stewart is especially critical of the deterioration of public discourse and the increasing influence of populism, which he argues has led to superficial debates rather than substantive problem-solving. His reflections on the inner workings of the British government reveal a system that, in his view, has strayed from its democratic ideals. Stewart’s portrayal of key political figures, including former Prime Ministers like David Cameron and Boris Johnson, is both revealing and at times unflattering, offering readers a window into how power is wielded and perceived within Westminster. His observations are often nuanced, as he acknowledges the strengths and shortcomings of colleagues across the political spectrum. He paints Johnson, in particular, as a figure emblematic of the troubling shift in British politics towards showmanship over integrity—a shift that Stewart finds deeply troubling. What sets Politics on the Edge apart from other political memoirs is Stewart’s philosophical and reflective approach. He doesn’t just recount events but probes larger questions about the purpose of government, the responsibilities of elected officials, and the possibility for reform. His writing is eloquent and earnest, as he grapples with his own disillusionment and considers what meaningful change might look like. For readers interested in British politics or the nature of political life in general, Politics on the Edge is a compelling read. It’s a rare, introspective glimpse into the personal cost of public service and a sobering reminder of the challenges facing democratic institutions today. Stewart’s memoir ultimately raises more questions than it answers, but his thoughtful, candid approach makes this a thought-provoking and valuable contribution to contemporary political literature.

This book is a page turner if you are amused by insightful vengeful gossip about one's political comrades. Rory Stewart is the Truman Capote of British politics. A legend in his own mind.

There is such a thing as a good Tory! I didn’t think they existed. What a good PM Rory would have made. Although this book does make it feel a little like he was the only person in Westminster who wasn’t a back stabbing simpleton (maybe he was). The end in particular comes across like a pretty decent political thriller. Can’t wait for the BBC adaptation!

I am not a Conservative but this is a great read. The insight into ministers and their departments was worth all of the pages but there many other enjoyable moments.

I bought this because it triangulated in the annual TLS review of books by various notable people. I tried so hard to get into it, succeeded for the 1st 100 or so pages, then got just the hint of “rooster on his dunghill” about it all and the rest was a slog. But that’s just me. For someone with a deep appreciation of U.K. politics around the edges, this might be a real winner. You can have my copy.

I always thought that Rory was a good guy. The first time I saw him on television, I instantly warmed to him. He never sounded like a Conservative politician to me! His life prior to politics was exceptional. After Eton, he spent a year in the army, and he was a diplomat in Indonesia, Bosnia, Afghanistan and Iraq. He did a two year walk across Afghanistan, Iran, Pakistan, India, and Nepal and wrote a best-selling book about it. He ran a charity in Kabul and was an academic at Harvard University. That’s a brief summary. One thing you can say about Rory is that he always gives 100%. He didn't just do the job, he ‘went native’. In his first term as an MP, he learned the ropes and missed out on promotion for defying the whips on one occasion. He is often scathing about his fellow MPs. His comments on Boris Johnson are particularly sharp. There are many superb anecdotes. Here’s one that tickled me, campaigning in Cumbria, he writes; “I began to notice that if a house was filled with books, the occupants would not be voting Conservative.” In his second term, he was given the first of several ministerial posts. He set about his roles doggedly. He was criticised as a minister for being too much of a civil servant and not enough of a politician. This may be true. I'm not sure. He was seemingly passionate in every ministerial role, especially regarding prisons. He visited many, spoke to governors, staff, prisoners. On one occasion he spent a night in a cell and wore a tag. If the UK had the electric chair, Rory would have gone for a ride in Old Sparky just to prove it was a cruel and unusual punishment. Joking aside, he did a lot of good work as Prisons and Probations Minister. He doesn’t say much about opposition parties in this book, but he has a lot to say about his fellow Tory MPs, and most (not all) of it is pretty damning. So why was he so loyal, for so long, to a party that (in my view) did not deserve him? That question isn't really answered. He criticises Boris Johnson and for sure, bad government is a bad thing. But, hang on, we're a democracy. In defence of Johnson, his values surely reflect those of the nation? Democracy is a kind of mirror. The government doesn't care about prisons because they rightly spot that the voters don't. The government ignores the homeless because most voters do. When Johnson won the leadership contest and then an election, the Conservative Party and the country got what we deserved. He won by democratic process. In the final act, Stewart stood in that leadership contest like Luke Skywalker trying to become a Sith Lord. With Boris in place, Rory Stewart is soon booted out of the Conservative Party. I was reminded of Caesars, purging the senators disloyal to him. This is a lengthy review, but there is so much more I could have said about this outstanding memoir. I think the ‘Politics on the Edge’ is a tragedy of Shakespearean proportions. The really sad thing for me is that he would have been a brilliant Labour Prime Minister.

Should be read in schools and universities, printed in whole in newspapers, everyone needs to know this. Respect to Mr Stewart for staying true to his principles.

profound insight into the complicated british political system. Stewart reveals from his experience and of course by his own view the pitfalls and frustrations in politics. On the edge means truly you can slip off and get fed up. interesting.

I have been listening to The Rest is Politics podcast, and Rory references his time in politics a fair bit. Not being a Tory, and having not lived in the Uk for a while, I decided to get his book to find out more. It really is a good read. Keeps you engaged and you can almost hear him talking in your head. For the politics curious, politics junkies, and academics alike - I highly recommend you read this book. It is appealing to all knowledge levels, as Rory never leaves you expecting to know the background - he always explains everything and does so in a way that is engaging and interesting, but it doesn’t offend those who know the details.

Interesting travel account by an interesting man.