This is a volume dedicated to the memory of Emlyn Hooson (1925–2012), a brilliant man of many parts. In Wales, in the UK and in many countries across the world he was well-known as a leading Liberal politician and a first-class barrister. He was also a knowledgeable farmer and a businessman of high repute. The various essays and reminiscences in the book portray him as a boy in Denbighshire, and trace his development from the time he went to university at Aberystwyth and the Royal Navy to his great success at the Bar, in both Houses of Parliament, and in industry. Some of the writings is parts of an autobiography and a piece on the famous Moors murder case (in which he defended Ian Brady) are his own. A few of the contributors knew Lord Hooson all his life. Others knew only the dedicated politician or the enthusiastic supporter of good causes. All of them have their story to tell. Their composite portrait of him depicts a wise, witty, civil, charming, sometimes professionally ruthless Welshman who was not only concerned for the well being of humankind but who was also close to the common man.
