A British politician who served in various cabinet positions, including Foreign Secretary, and played a key role in shaping the country's foreign policy, particularly during the Iraq War.
Jack Straw, born John Whitaker Straw on August 3, 1946, is a British politician renowned for his unwavering commitment to public service, having served in the Cabinet from 1997 to 2010 under the Labour governments of Tony Blair and Gordon Brown. During this period, he held two of the traditional Great Offices of State, first as Home Secretary from 1997 to 2001, and subsequently as Foreign Secretary from 2001 to 2006 under Blair.
Straw was born in Buckhurst Hill, Essex, to Walter Arthur Whitaker Straw, an insurance clerk and salesman, and Joan Sylvia Gilbey, a teacher. He was raised by his mother on a council estate in Loughton after his father left the family. Straw was educated at Oaklands School, where his mother worked as a teacher, and later at Brentwood School. He went on to study Law at the University of Leeds, paving the way for a successful career as a barrister.
Straw's foray into politics began when he served as an adviser to cabinet minister Barbara Castle. In 1979, he was selected to succeed Castle as MP for the Blackburn constituency, a seat he held until 2015. His dedication and expertise earned him a place in the Cabinet, where he served continuously from 1997 to 2010, making him one of only three individuals to achieve this feat during the Labour governments of Tony Blair and Gordon Brown.
Straw's personal life has been marked by reconciliation with his estranged father and his dedication to his family. He has been married to Alice Perkins since 1978, and they have two children together.
Throughout his career, Straw has been a passionate advocate for human rights, social justice, and environmental protection. His commitment to these causes has inspired a generation of politicians and activists, cementing his legacy as a champion of progressive values.
Jack Straw's unwavering dedication to public service, his tireless advocacy for social justice, and his commitment to shaping the UK's foreign policy have left an indelible mark on British politics. His legacy serves as a testament to the power of committed leadership and the importance of standing up for one's principles, even in the face of adversity.
71 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.
73 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.
70 Years Old
A British politician who played a key role in the Northern Ireland peace process and served in various UK cabinet positions, known for his diplomatic efforts and Labour Party leadership.
67 Years Old
A former spin doctor and strategist for Tony Blair's government, known for his influential role in shaping British politics and media. He's also a bestselling author of diaries and fiction.
59 Years Old
The former UK Foreign Secretary who played a key role in shaping British foreign policy, particularly in the Middle East and Afghanistan, and was a strong advocate for international cooperation and human rights.
57 Years Old
A British Labour Party politician who served as Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer, known for his economic policies and appearances on reality TV shows.
74 Years Old
A pioneering female politician who championed women's rights and social justice, serving as Deputy Leader of the Labour Party and Acting Leader of the Opposition.
86 Years Old
Deputy Prime Minister of the UK from 1997 to 2007, known for his strong personality and advocacy for social justice and environmental issues. He played a key role in shaping the country's climate change policies.
