Died: April 9, 2021. DR Ian Gibson, who has died at the age of 82 from pancreatic cancer, was that rarity among MPs – an acknowledged expert in science and medicine who embarked on a Parliamentary career because he believed that, through politics, he could do good for a greater number. Dr Gibson was born in Dumfries, but his adopted city was Norwich where he was elected for its North constituency in 1997 at the age of 58. A man very much of his own opinions, he won the chairmanship of the Commons Select Committee on science and technology in 2001, despite opposition from the Labour whips.
Last modified on Sun 25 Apr 2021 12.01 EDT
Ian Gibson, who has died aged 82 of pancreatic cancer, had a considerable reputation as a cancer researcher before seeking a political career in order to try to advance the cause of science in public life. He was elected for the first time in 1997, aged 58, as the Labour MP for Norwich North and spent the ensuing 12 years in an energetic pursuit of this case, while also propounding his strongly held convictions on a wide range of issues about health and education.
He was a popular, charismatic man who won the influential chairmanship of the Commons select committee on science and technology in 2001, despite the opposition of his own party whips.