Knights Hill Councillor - David Malone

David Malone

When and why did you first become interested in politics?
My first real involvement with politics was upon my retirement from the Police Service in 1996 when I joined the Labour Party and campaigned in the 1997 General Election. That being said I have been a life long Labour supporter. The Labour Party are still the only party that provides true equality of opportunity whatever your background.

What inspired you to become a councillor?
First and foremost I wanted to ensure that the Labour Party took control of a failing Council. I also hope that I can make a positive difference in my community. I am committed to and believe in public service. This is evidenced by the fact that I have spent the best part of my adult life serving the public as a police officer (including a career in the Metropolitan Police Service), as a barrister (practising as a legal aid lawyer within the fields of criminal, police, prison and human rights law) and now as a councillor.

Has it been worth it?
Yes. This Labour Council and its Labour councillors are steadily making positive changes to the life of Lambeths residents.

What’s your greatest fear and your greatest hope?
On a global perspective I hope that the human race can together stop war, hunger, disease and injustice. I fear that we will never achieve these ideals.

What’s the first thing you would do if you ruled the world for a day?
I would end war, hunger, disease and injustice.

What single thing would most improve your area?
An end to the twin problems of crime and anti-social behaviour. These are the number one concerns of most residents I talk to.

What fictional character do you identify with, and why?
Atticus Finch, a lawyer who fights injustice (‘To Kill a Mockingbird’, Harper Lee). This book should be compulsory reading and all lawyers should aspire to be like him.

What’s your favourite film?
This is a difficult question and probably depends on my mood. I can say that the film of ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ (with Gregory Peck, who won an Oscar for his performance as Atticus Finch) is almost as good as the book.

What does your council do particularly well?
Recycling is particularly good.

What is your greatest political triumph?
My election as a councillor.

What is the biggest problem with local government today?
The lack of engagement with the local community as evidenced by the low voter turn-out.

How would you solve it?
Firstly, by making the Council more relevant, accessible and transparent to the local community. Secondly, I would like to see a campaign of education (starting with schools and colleges) and voter registration.

Who is your political hero, and why?
Martin Luther King, the civil rights campaigner. He was inspirational leader and public speaker who advocated change by peaceful means in the face of violence, hate and adversity.

When and where are you most happy?
At home with my family.

What’s your theme song, and why?
‘He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother’, The Hollies. Again an inspirational piece of work.

What one book would you take with you to a desert island?
Ever practical, a survival guide.

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