Keir Starmer has honored the memory of Sir George Howarth for his extensive dedication to public service following his passing at the age of 77.
Sir George, a former government official, served as a Member of Parliament for nearly four decades, beginning in 1986 when he was elected to represent the Merseyside constituency of Knowsley North. He concluded his tenure in the Commons during the most recent general election in 2024, where he represented Knowsley.
The Prime Minister remarked, “Throughout his lifetime of public service, George demonstrated outstanding commitment to his party, his nation, and the people of Knowsley. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family during this challenging period,” addressing the Labour movement.
Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle lamented his recent passing as “another somber loss” for the House of Commons. He reminisced about campaigning for Sir George during the 1986 by-election that led to his parliamentary entry, noting the unfortunate health challenges that followed.
Deputy Labour leader Lucy Powell expressed deep sorrow over the news of George Howarth’s passing, highlighting his political acumen, community engagement, and steadfast presence in Parliament for nearly four decades.
Anneliese Midgley, the current Labour MP for Knowsley, conveyed her sadness over the loss of her predecessor, Sir George Howarth, offering thoughts and prayers to his family, friends, and former colleagues.
Schools minister Catherine McKinnell shared fond memories of George as a colleague, describing him as warm, kind, sharp, and humorous, while extending sympathies to his loved ones.
Throughout his parliamentary career, Sir George served on the Panel of Chairs, overseeing debates and committees. He also held ministerial roles during Tony Blair’s early years in office, contributing to the Home Office and the Northern Ireland Office.
In recognition of his parliamentary and political contributions, Sir George was knighted in the 2019 Birthday Honours.
The Knowsley seat was retained by Labour in the most recent general election, with Ms. Midgley securing a significant majority of 18,319 votes.