Frank Field (1942-2024): The Christian politician who put ethics above party politics

The former Labour minister Frank Field, has died aged 81. As passionately committed to social justice as he was the Book of Common Prayer, Lord Field of Birkenhead crossed political boundaries but was admired by both sides, says the Bishop of Whitby 

Since the death of Frank Field on 23 April, many have commented on his social and political passions, the impossibility of pigeon-holing him within the party system, his surprising views on a range of subjects, his insistence on the moral and financial obligations that all individuals should accept (including criticism of the excesses of property ownership), his reforming energy and his devotion to the Book of Common Prayer.

Above all, Frank defied simple political labels of left and right. And consistently, those comments tell of how he was genuinely loved and respected despite deep differences.

Born in Edmonton, Frank Field moved north to study economics at the University of Hull. As a graduate, he led the Child Poverty Action Group and the Low Pay Unit. In 1979, he was selected to stand for Labour in my home town of Birkenhead, facing Liverpool over the Mersey, and his 40-year tenure as its MP began.