For the Record by David Cameron Summary

For the Record is David Cameron’s memoir chronicling his tenure as UK Prime Minister (2010–2016), focusing on his modernization of the Conservative Party, economic reforms, and the pivotal Brexit referendum. It defends his decision to hold the EU vote, reflects on the Leave campaign’s tactics, and addresses personal challenges, including his son Ivan’s health struggles. The book aims to justify his legacy amid Brexit’s fallout.

This memoir suits readers interested in modern British politics, Brexit’s origins, or Conservative Party strategy. Historians, policymakers, and Cameron-era analysts will find firsthand insights into coalition governance, austerity measures, and the referendum’s chaotic aftermath. Critics of Cameron’s leadership may also engage with his self-defense narrative.

Yes, for its insider perspective on Brexit and Cameron’s political career. While criticized for downplaying referendum missteps, the book offers granular details on Tory reforms, EU renegotiations, and clashes with figures like Boris Johnson. Its blend of policy analysis and personal reflection makes it a key primary source for understanding 2010s UK politics.

Cameron argues the referendum was necessary to address Conservative Party divisions and neutralize UKIP’s rising influence. He claims renegotiating EU terms aimed to secure a “more flexible” membership, while the public vote fulfilled a 2015 election pledge. Tactically, he believed it would cement Tory unity—a strategy that backfired after the Leave campaign’s victory.

Cameron admits “deep regrets” over the referendum’s outcome but defends the decision to hold it. He speculates that alternative tactics (e.g., persuading Boris Johnson to support Remain) might have altered the result. However, he avoids accepting full responsibility, framing Brexit as a democratic choice beyond his control.

Critics argue Cameron downplays his mishandling of the referendum, glosses over austerity’s social impact, and frames Brexit as inevitable. The memoir is accused of selective memory, particularly in omitting Russia’s interference in the vote and oversimplifying Leave campaign falsehoods.

Cameron dedicates a section to Ivan’s severe epilepsy and cerebral palsy, highlighting how his son’s 2009 death reshaped his perspective on healthcare and family. This personal narrative contrasts with his political stoicism, humanizing his policy focus on disability support.

The memoir emphasizes austerity-driven economic recovery, same-sex marriage legalization, education decentralization, and a surprise 2015 election majority. Cameron frames these as foundational to modernizing the UK, though critics argue they exacerbated inequality.

Unlike Tony Blair’s introspective style, Cameron’s account prioritizes defending his legacy. It shares parallels with memoirs by George W. Bush in its focus on decision-making under crisis but lacks depth on post-office reflections, ending abruptly with his 2016 resignation.

The book reinforces Cameron’s reputation as a pragmatic reformer overshadowed by Brexit. While detailing policy successes, it cements his association with the referendum’s divisive aftermath—a “Faustian pact” that reshaped Britain’s global stance.