Roy Hattersley, the former Labour Party deputy leader, has died at the age of 93. His death marks the end of a long and influential political career that helped shape the modern Labour Party.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer paid tribute to Hattersley, describing him as “a giant of the Labour movement” who remained committed to building a fairer and more equal Britain throughout his life.
Roy Hattersley’s Early Political Career
Roy Hattersley was born in Sheffield and entered Parliament in 1964 as the Labour MP for Birmingham Sparkbrook. He represented the constituency for more than three decades and became one of Labour’s most prominent figures during a period of significant political change.
Representing Birmingham Sparkbrook
Throughout his years in Parliament, Hattersley earned a reputation as a dedicated politician who played an important role in shaping Labour policy and representing his constituents. read more
Roy Hattersley’s Role in the Labour Government
During the 1970s, Hattersley served in the Labour government under Prime Minister James Callaghan. In 1976, he joined the Cabinet as Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection.
Following Labour’s defeat to Margaret Thatcher’s Conservatives in the 1983 general election, Hattersley became deputy leader of the Labour Party under Neil Kinnock.
Nine Years as Labour Deputy Leader
Hattersley held the deputy leadership position for nine years and helped guide the party through a challenging period. He supported policies that embraced the market economy, European cooperation and multilateral nuclear disarmament while opposing Labour’s shift further to the left.
Tributes Paid to Roy Hattersley
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said Hattersley never lost sight of his belief in equality and social justice. He also offered his condolences to Hattersley’s wife, Maggie, and the wider family.
Deputy Labour leader Lucy Powell praised Hattersley’s contribution to both the Labour Party and British politics, describing him as a thoughtful figure whose advice influenced generations of politicians. know more
Political Leaders Remember Roy Hattersley
House of Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle highlighted Hattersley’s lifelong commitment to public service, politics and writing.
Former New Labour strategist Alastair Campbell described him as a loyal and hardworking deputy leader who played a key role during an important period in Labour’s history.
Life After Parliament
After leaving the House of Commons in 1997, Hattersley was awarded a life peerage and became Baron Hattersley of Sparkbrook.
Roy Hattersley’s Legacy
Even after leaving frontline politics, Hattersley remained active through writing, political commentary and public debate. His views continued to influence discussions on Labour politics and public policy.
Roy Hattersley’s Impact on British Politics
Tributes have come from across the political spectrum following Hattersley’s death. Many have recognised his contribution to Labour’s modernisation and his decades of service to British public life.
His legacy remains closely linked to the Labour Party’s evolution and its efforts to adapt to changing political and economic realities.
