Former Labour minister Phil Woolas dies aged 66
Former Labour minister Phil Woolas dies aged 66
Phil Woolas, a former Labour minister known for his heated TV debate with Joanna Lumley, passed away at 66 due to brain cancer. His political journey spanned over a decade as an MP, during which he held key roles under Sir Tony Blair and Gordon Brown.
Early Career and Prominent Roles
Woolas represented Oldham East and Saddleworth from 1997 to 2010, serving as a deputy Commons leader and a local government minister under Blair. Later, he transitioned to the environment and immigration portfolios during Brown’s tenure. His time in office was marked by strong opinions and occasional controversy, culminating in a pivotal 2010 election petition after a narrow victory.
A Defining TV Clash
In 2009, Woolas faced off against Joanna Lumley in a live broadcast, a moment that became iconic. Lumley opposed Brown’s plan to limit Gurkha rights, while Woolas, as immigration minister, championed the policy. Their confrontation, which took place in a Westminster studio, escalated into a chaotic joint press conference. Despite the turmoil, Lumley later claimed to have convinced Woolas to support improved guidelines for the issue.
“I have met Mr Woolas now and I am reassured again. Because I know we are going to assist Mr Woolas in making the strongest guidelines possible.” – Joanna Lumley
Controversy and Legal Repercussions
His political career reached a turning point when a court found him guilty of violating electoral laws. The judge ruled Woolas knowingly made false claims about his Liberal Democrat opponent, Elwyn Watkins, during the campaign. This led to a re-election of the seat, a rare legal action in British history. Woolas, who described the ruling as a “bitter” outcome, maintained that political conduct should be scrutinized in public debate.
Legacy and Tributes
Sir Tony Blair paid homage to Woolas, stating, “Phil was an outstanding member of the New Labour government, a greatly respected and admired colleague, and a source of both humour and rich political insight to all lucky enough to know him. I remember and deeply appreciate his support to me over the years, through the good times and the bad.” Defence Secretary John Healey added, “During the ’80s and ’90s, many helped lay the foundations for New Labour, defeating the hard left and modernising the student movement, trade unions, media, Labour Party and Parliamentary Labour Party. No-one played a significant role in all these areas—except Phil.”
Post-Political Life and Campaign Stunts
After leaving Parliament, Woolas ventured into communications, leading a memorable protest stunt with the GMB union. In 1996, the union brought a live pig named Cedric to British Gas’s annual meeting to critique the company’s £475,000 annual pay rise for its CEO. This bold act, dubbed “snouts in the trough,” became a symbol of grassroots activism. His career in politics, though short, left a lasting mark on UK governance and public discourse.
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