An Anglo-Irish businessman, life peer, and British politician who served as a Minister of State and Chairman of Northern Foods, playing a significant role in UK politics and food industry.
Christopher Haskins, Baron Haskins, is a renowned Irish businessman and life peer, best known for transforming Northern Dairies into the thriving food company, Northern Foods. Throughout his illustrious career, he has made significant contributions to the food industry, politics, and beyond.
Born on May 30, 1937, in Dublin, Ireland, Christopher Haskins was raised by a Protestant farmer. He attended St. Columbas College and Trinity College, Dublin, where he earned an honors degree in modern history. During his student days, he was an active member of the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament, showcasing his early inclination towards social responsibility.
Haskins' entrepreneurial journey began when he joined Northern Dairies in 1962 as a condition of marrying Gilda Horsley, whose father was the company's owner. He soon rose through the ranks, becoming a director in 1967 and deputy chairman in 1974. His visionary approach led to the company's transformation into Northern Foods, with popular brands like Ski yoghurt and Bowyers sausages. Marks and Spencer, the renowned retailer, became the company's largest customer for ready meals.
In recognition of his contributions, Haskins was ennobled as a life peer with the title Baron Haskins, of Skidby, in the County of the East Riding of Yorkshire, on July 25, 1998. He went on to serve as Prime Minister Tony Blair's rural tsar during the foot and mouth disease epidemic in 2001. Throughout his career, he has been an active member of various task forces, including the Better Regulation Task Force and the New Deal Task Force.
Lord Haskins has been an ardent supporter of European integration, playing a leading role in the Britain in Europe campaign and the House of Lords European Sub-Committee. He has also served as the Chairman of the European Movement. In 2005, he made headlines by donating £2,000 to the campaign of Scottish Liberal Democrat MP Danny Alexander, which led to his expulsion from the Labour Party.
Throughout his life, Christopher Haskins has demonstrated a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and public service. His contributions to the food industry, politics, and philanthropy have left an indelible mark. As a crossbencher, he continues to advocate for progressive policies and values.
As a testament to his dedication and perseverance, Christopher Haskins remains an inspiration to generations of entrepreneurs, politicians, and individuals committed to making a positive impact on society.
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