Tom Clarke, Scottish politician, Shadow Secretary of State for Scotland

Sir Thomas Clarke, born on January 10, 1941, is a distinguished figure in British politics, renowned for his extensive service as a Labour Party Member of Parliament (MP). His parliamentary career spanned over three decades, a testament to his commitment to public service and the communities he represented in the West of Scotland.

A devoted member of the Labour Party, Sir Thomas entered the House of Commons at a pivotal time in British political history. He was first elected as an MP for Coatbridge and Airdrie in a by-election on June 24, 1982. This initial victory marked the beginning of a long and impactful tenure at Westminster. Following boundary changes, he subsequently represented the constituency of Monklands West from 1983 until 2005.

Throughout his time in Parliament, Sir Thomas held several significant positions, contributing to both government and opposition benches. Under the Labour government of Prime Minister Tony Blair, he served as Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Social Security from 1997 to 1998. He then took on the role of Minister for Film and Tourism from 1998 to 1999, where he played a part in shaping policies related to the creative industries and the promotion of Britain as a tourist destination. Prior to Labour's return to power in 1997, he also held key shadow ministerial portfolios, including Shadow Secretary of State for Scotland from 1992 to 1997, demonstrating his deep engagement with Scottish affairs within the UK Parliament. His dedication to parliamentary service was formally recognised when he was appointed a Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire (KBE) in the 1998 New Year Honours for services to Parliament, bestowing upon him the title 'Sir'. He was also sworn into the Privy Council in 1997, earning the prefix 'Right Honourable'.

From the 2005 general election onwards, following further constituency boundary revisions, Sir Thomas proudly represented the newly formed constituency of Coatbridge, Chryston and Bellshill. This area, deeply rooted in Scotland's industrial heritage, continued to be his political home for another decade. His representation focused on advocating for the needs of his constituents, ranging from local employment issues to national social policies.

Sir Thomas Clarke's long parliamentary journey concluded in the May 2015 United Kingdom general election. This election saw a significant political shift in Scotland, often referred to as the "SNP surge." The Scottish National Party (SNP) achieved unprecedented success across the country, securing a vast majority of the Scottish seats in Westminster. In Coatbridge, Chryston and Bellshill, Sir Thomas, after 33 years of service, lost his seat to Philip Boswell of the Scottish National Party, marking the end of a remarkable career in the House of Commons.

His tenure is remembered for his steadfast commitment to his constituents, his contributions to Labour Party policy, and his long-standing presence in the British Parliament.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sir Thomas Clarke

When was Sir Thomas Clarke born?
Sir Thomas Clarke was born on January 10, 1941.
Which political party did Sir Thomas Clarke represent?
He was a prominent Member of Parliament for the British Labour Party throughout his career.
How long did Sir Thomas Clarke serve as an MP?
Sir Thomas Clarke served as a Member of Parliament for 33 years, from 1982 until 2015.
Which constituencies did he represent?
He represented Coatbridge and Airdrie (1982-1983), Monklands West (1983-2005), and finally Coatbridge, Chryston and Bellshill (2005-2015).
Why did Sir Thomas Clarke lose his seat in 2015?
He lost his seat to Philip Boswell of the Scottish National Party (SNP) in the May 2015 general election. This outcome was part of a broader "SNP surge" that saw the Scottish National Party win a significant majority of seats across Scotland.
What ministerial roles did Sir Thomas Clarke hold?
He served as Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Social Security (1997-1998) and as Minister for Film and Tourism (1998-1999) under the Labour government.
When was Sir Thomas Clarke knighted?
He was appointed a Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire (KBE) in the 1998 New Year Honours for his services to Parliament.