In the lead-up to Christmas, Chamber UK hosted the latest series of Baroness Barker’s Book Club – “A Christmas Classics Collection.” Baroness Liz Barker welcomed MPs from across the political spectrum to share the books they hope to give and receive this festive season. The discussion explored works that have inspired, influenced, or simply delighted them – books they believe everyone should experience for their wisdom, insight, or pure enjoyment.
Steffan Aquarone MP’s Top Festive Picks
In the first episode of the series, we were joined by Steffan Aquarone, Liberal Democrat MP for North Norfolk.
Stefan shared his thoughts on reading as a busy MP, the joy of books set in his beloved North Norfolk, and his top picks for Christmas gifts and personal reading. Learn about his love for local authors like Elly Griffiths and D.J. Taylor, his reflections on crime and nature writing, and the importance of reading for both relaxation and inspiration. Stefan also gives a sneak peek into his own book, Fourth to First, which captures stories from his campaign trail.
To watch the full video, please click the YouTube link below.
Stephen Gethins MP’s Must-Read Recommendations
For the second episode in the series, Stephen Gethins, SNP MP for Arbroath and Broughty Ferry, shared his top book recommendations for Christmas.
Stephen reflected on his love of history, poetry, and classic literature, offering thoughtful suggestions for personal reading and gift-giving. From Jim McIntosh’s poignant poetry on migration to Tolkien’s The Hobbit and Murray Pittock’s exploration of Scotland’s global history, there’s something for everyone.
Books Mentioned included, We Are Migrant by Jim McIntosh, The Caucasus by Tom De Waal, Scotland: The Global History by Murray Pittock, The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien, Kidnapped by Robert Louis Stevenson. Plus, Stephen shares his favorite movie for the holidays: Lawrence of Arabia.
To watch the full video, please click the YouTube link below.
Ann Davies MP’s Christmas Book Collection
Next, we were joined by Ann Davies, Welsh Plaid Cymru MP for Caerfyrddin, who shared her top book recommendations for Christmas.
Ann reflected on her love for autobiographies and her deep connection to Welsh literature and culture. She highlighted the importance of storytelling within her community, from local tales to inspiring personal journeys. Her suggestions span politics, farming, and sports, offering meaningful reads for the festive season.
Books mentioned included Politics on the Edge by Rory Stewart, Proud by Gareth Thomas, Half Time by Nigel Owens, and a Welsh-language book co-authored by Meinir Howells and Andrew Davies, celebrating the life and struggles of modern farming families. Ann also praised Pobol y Cwm, a beloved Welsh sitcom, as her go-to show for holiday viewing.
To watch the full video, click the YouTube link below.
Adam Jogee MP’s Holiday Booklist
Adam Jogee, Labour Party MP for Newcastle-under-Lyme, shared his top book recommendations for Christmas.
Adam reflected on his lifelong love of reading, recounting childhood memories of carrying two books at once and his enduring admiration for the written word. He offered thoughtful suggestions for personal reading and gifting, ranging from political biographies to local history and poetry. From Robert Caro’s volumes on Lyndon B. Johnson to Nelson Mandela’s Long Walk to Freedom and the power of sonnets gifted by Dame Judi Dench, there’s a recommendation for everyone.
Books mentioned included The Years of Lyndon Johnson by Robert Caro, King Charles III by Robert Hardman, The History of Africa by Zeinab Badawi, Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela, and Say Nothing by Patrick Radden Keefe. Adam also spotlighted a local author’s book on Newcastle-under-Lyme and a compelling read about Zimbabwe’s history by David Coltart. Plus, Adam shared his enthusiasm for Jimmy Carter’s inspiring biography and the role of written stories in fostering understanding, whether through Irish history or modern struggles.
To watch the full video, click the YouTube link below.
Final Thought
To explore more episodes of Baroness Barker’s Book Club – including discussions on the US election with Sir Robert Buckland KBE KC and Paula Sherriff, and a World AIDS Day special with Norman Fowler – click here . Don’t forget to subscribe to Chamber UK’s YouTube channel for exclusive access to all our content!
