David�s life story is a heroic one of triumph over adversity. Born into a poor Sheffield family, his father drowned in a vat of boiling water when David was twelve. He was told all he could ever for was menial factory work because of his blindness. But thought sheer hard work and determination he rose to one of the highest offices of state.
As Education Secretary he turned round standards in our primary schools. The massive school building programme we are seeing in Exeter is thanks to his ability to squeeze money out of the Treasury. As Home Secretary he cut crime and achieved record police numbers.
Despite his blindness he was always completely on top of his brief. In meetings he chaired he had an uncanny sixth sense that told him who else was in the room and when they wanted to speak.
David had been single since his marriage ended many years ago. One can see why he was vulnerable to the seductions of the voracious Mrs Quinn.
His judgment failed him when he allowed his office to help her. It failed it again in his over the top criticism of some of his cabinet colleagues.
But what a price he has paid for insisting on his right to maintain contact with the young son he loves!
