How Birmingham became Chamberlain's invincible fortress

For the first time author and historian Andrew Reekes has laid bare how Joseph Chamberlain with his relations, colleagues and friends turned Birmingham and the West Midlands into his personal political fortress.

His domination lasted for more than 30 years - A political feat never been repeated before or since.

In this fascinating new book The Birmingham Political Machine: Winning Elections for Joseph Chamberlain Andrew reveals how the organisation they created changed British politics forever.

In this programme he talks to our publisher Mike Gibbs.

Keywords: Highbury, Joseph Chamberlain, Birmingham Politics, Tariff Reform, Political Machine