Labour Party politician who served as Culture Secretary from 2001 to 2007, overseeing the introduction of the Licensing Act and the London 2012 Olympic bid .
Barbara Follett is a British Labour Party politician who served as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Stevenage from 1997 to 2010, holding various parliamentary and ministerial positions during her tenure. She is particularly known for her significant role in transforming the Labour Party, making it more inclusive and representative of women, which led to a record 101 women being elected to Parliament in 1997.
Born Daphne Barbara Hubbard on December 25, 1942, in Kingston, Jamaica, Follett spent her early years in various parts of the world, including the UK, Ethiopia, and South Africa, due to her father's insurance business. She began her university degree in Art but had to interrupt her studies to work with Barclays Bank.
In the decade preceding her entry into Parliament, Follett played a crucial role in transforming the Labour Party. She co-founded and ran two organizations, Labour Women's Network and Emilys List UK, which aimed to increase women's representation in politics. Her efforts led to a significant increase in the number of women MPs, making her a champion of women's rights in British politics.
During her tenure as an MP, Follett held various ministerial positions, including Minister for Culture, Creative Industries, and Women. She was instrumental in introducing policies and initiatives that promoted women's empowerment, cultural development, and social justice. Her notable achievements include:
In the wake of the United Kingdom Parliamentary expenses scandal, Follett repaid over £42,000 in expenses, topping the list of repayments made by MPs. This decision demonstrated her commitment to transparency and accountability in politics.
In 2010, Follett stood down as an MP to take over the business of her husband, author Ken Follett. She has since continued to be involved in various charitable and social initiatives, using her experience and expertise to make a positive impact on society.
Barbara Follett's contributions to British politics, particularly in promoting women's representation and empowerment, have left a lasting legacy. Her work has inspired countless women to enter politics, and her commitment to social justice and cultural development continues to shape the country's political landscape.
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