I have just learned that Shirley Williams, Baroness Williams of Crosby, has died at the age of 90. In the last week we have lost Cheryl Gillan, Peter Ainsworth and Ian Gibson from the ranks of politicians or ex-politicians. And now Shirley. I do hope her death is not eclipsed in the news by the ongoing aftermath of the death of the Duke of Edinburgh. Shirley was a top ranking politician and a truly wonderful human being and deserves more.
I first met her in 1977. In fact, she was the first politician I ever saw in real life. At the time she was serving in Jim Callaghan s cabinet and she came to my school in Saffron Walden to give a speech. The school hall was full. I do not remember anything she said, but I do remember shyly shaking hands with her afterwards. Sadly I can t remember what was said.
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Date: 27 May 2021
Boris Johnson has paid tribute to former Conservative MP Peter Ainsworth, who has died aged 64.
Mr Ainsworth was MP for East Surrey from 1992 to 2010 and held a series of frontbench roles, including as shadow culture secretary and shadow environment secretary.
Sad to hear about the loss of Peter Ainsworth – a delightful colleague & passionate about his causes, especially the environment. We shared a corridor & often found ourselves charging late for the division. He has been taken far too young. My thoughts with Claire & their family.
The Prime Minister said Mr Ainsworth was a “delightful colleague” and “passionate about his causes, especially the environment”.
Boris Johnson has paid tribute to former Conservative MP Peter Ainsworth, who has died aged 64.
Mr Ainsworth was MP for East Surrey from 1992 to 2010 and held a series of frontbench roles, including as shadow culture secretary and shadow environment secretary.
Sad to hear about the loss of Peter Ainsworth – a delightful colleague & passionate about his causes, especially the environment. We shared a corridor & often found ourselves charging late for the division. He has been taken far too young. My thoughts with Claire & their family.
The Prime Minister said Mr Ainsworth was a “delightful colleague” and “passionate about his causes, especially the environment”.