In and around 1991, David Botsford (d.2013) recorded a series of interviews for a programme that he called “Voices of Liberty”. Those he interviewed included many in the British libertarian movement, together with several prominent critics of libertarianism.

The programme was never made. In December 2007, however, David handed the analogue tapes of the interviews to Sean Gabb of the Libertarian Alliance.

Beyond making a few obvious joins, where interviews span more than one tape, Sean decided not to edit the footage. This means occasional comedy and much dullness. But these are now important video sources from the moment when some thought the libertarian movement was on the point of political breakthrough, but it was really on the verge of decline.

At the time of filming, David obtained signed permission from all persons interviewed to use their contributions as he pleased. He assigned these rights to the Libertarian Alliance.

We take this opportunity to regret David’s early death. In the 1980s, he was a prolific and important writer for the Libertarian Alliance. He was also good company. He has been and will be missed.