Keir Starmer has honored the “lifetime of public service” of Sir George Howarth following the passing of the esteemed Labour figure at the age of 77.
Sir George, a former minister, dedicated nearly forty years to serving as a Member of Parliament after his election to represent the Merseyside constituency of Knowsley North in 1986. He retired from the Commons in 2024, having represented Knowsley at the time.
The Prime Minister expressed his condolences, acknowledging Sir George’s commitment to his party, country, and constituents. The entire Labour movement stands with his family during this challenging period.
Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle lamented his recent demise as another loss for the House of Commons. Remembering campaigning for Sir George in the 1986 by-election, he highlighted the late politician’s contributions and expressed sympathy for his family.
Deputy Labour leader Lucy Powell shared her sorrow, describing Sir George as a principled and community-oriented individual who served diligently during his lengthy tenure in Parliament.
Anneliese Midgley, the current Labour MP for Knowsley, expressed deep sadness over Sir George’s passing and extended sympathies to his loved ones and colleagues.
Schools minister Catherine McKinnell remembered Sir George as a wonderful colleague, offering kind words and thoughts for his family and friends.
Throughout his parliamentary career, Sir George chaired Westminster Hall debates and served on various committees, demonstrating his dedication to public service.
Having held ministerial positions under Prime Minister Tony Blair, Sir George received a knighthood in the 2019 Birthday Honours for his contributions to parliamentary and political affairs.
In the most recent general election, Labour retained the Knowsley seat, with Ms. Midgley securing a significant majority of 18,319 votes.
