A Welsh journalist and politician who served as a Member of Parliament and held various ministerial positions, known for his contributions to Welsh politics and media.
Known for his dedicated service as a British politician and life peer, Don Touhig has left an indelible mark on the country's political landscape. As the Member of Parliament (MP) for Islwyn from 1995 to 2010, Touhig has been a stalwart advocate for the Labour and Cooperative parties, serving in various capacities within the government.
Born on December 5, 1947, Touhig pursued his education at St Francis RC School in Abersychan, near Pontypool, and later at the Mid Gwent College (now Coleg Gwent) in Pontypool. Before entering politics, he worked as a journalist from 1968 to 1976 and subsequently as the Editor of the Free Press of Monmouthshire (Monmouth Free Press) from 1976 to 1990.
Touhig's political journey began in 1962 when he joined the Transport and General Workers' Union (TGWU). Four years later, in 1966, he became a member of the Labour Party. His dedication to public service led him to serve on Gwent County Council from 1973 to 1995. In 1992, he contested the Richmond and Barnes constituency but reached third place behind the Conservative and Liberal Democrat candidates.
In 1995, Touhig succeeded Neil Kinnock, former Leader of the Opposition and Leader of the Labour Party, as MP for Islwyn at the byelection on February 16. This marked the beginning of his remarkable tenure as an MP, during which he served as a Member of the Welsh Affairs Select Committee from 1996 to 1997.
In May 1997, Touhig was appointed as Parliamentary Private Secretary (PPS) to Gordon Brown, then Chancellor of the Exchequer. However, he was forced to resign as PPS in 1999 after confessing to receiving a leaked Social Security Select Committee report on Child benefit. This led to his suspension from the Commons for three days.
Undeterred by this setback, Touhig continued to serve in various government roles. From November 1999 to June 2001, he served as an Assistant Whip, and later as a junior minister at the Ministry of Defence, with special responsibility for veterans from 2001 to 2006.
In recognition of his dedicated service, Touhig was elevated to the House of Lords as a life peer in 2010. His commitment to public service has earned him a place in the annals of British political history.
Don Touhig's remarkable journey serves as a testament to his unwavering commitment to public service, politics, and the betterment of society.
83 Years Old
A Welsh politician who served as Vice-President of the European Commission, known for his efforts to reform the European Union and promote social democracy. He's a prominent figure in British politics, leading the Labour Party in the 1980s.
72 Years Old
The former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom who led the country through a transformative period, including the Iraq War, and is known for his charismatic leadership and controversial decisions.
74 Years Old
The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 2007 to 2010, known for his key role in shaping the country's economy and response to the 2008 global financial crisis.
75 Years Old
A British Labour Party politician who served as Secretary of State for Wales, Northern Ireland, and Work and Pensions, known for his anti-apartheid activism and involvement in several high-profile political controversies.
86 Years Old
The 2nd First Minister of Wales, who led the country from 2000 to 2009, is most known for his efforts to strengthen Welsh identity and promote devolution. He played a key role in shaping modern Wales' politics and governance.
82 Years Old
Inaugural First Minister of Wales, leading the country's devolved government and shaping its future. Known for his efforts in establishing a stable and prosperous Wales.
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A chess prodigy who dominated the game in the 19th century with his exceptional skill and innovative strategies, leaving a lasting impact on the sport.
47 Years Old
South Africa's former rugby team captain and hooker, known for leading the Springboks to World Cup victory in 2007 and becoming the first player to captain a team to 50 Test wins.
