Tim Yeo, English politician, Shadow Secretary of State for Health

Timothy Stephen Kenneth Yeo, born on March 20, 1945, is a prominent figure in British politics, having dedicated decades of his life to public service as a member of the Conservative Party. His career spanned a significant period, marked by long parliamentary service and key roles within both government and opposition.

A Distinguished Political Career

Serving South Suffolk: A Long Parliamentary Tenure

Mr. Yeo first entered the House of Commons following the 1983 United Kingdom general election, securing the parliamentary seat for the constituency of South Suffolk. This marked the beginning of an impressive 32-year tenure, during which he consistently represented the interests of his constituents. For over three decades, he was a familiar presence in Westminster, contributing to debates and legislative processes. His long service as a Member of Parliament (MP) came to an end in 2015, not by his own retirement, but when he was deselected by his local constituency party, a rare and significant event in British politics that signals a shift in local party priorities or sentiment.

In Government: Minister for the Environment and Countryside

During his time in Parliament, Timothy Yeo ascended to a ministerial position within the Conservative government led by Prime Minister John Major. From 1993 to 1994, he served as the Minister for the Environment and Countryside. This crucial role involved overseeing policies related to environmental protection, natural heritage, and rural affairs, reflecting a period when environmental concerns were gaining increasing prominence on the national agenda. His portfolio placed him at the heart of government efforts to balance economic development with the preservation of Britain's natural landscapes and ecosystems.

Opposition Roles: Member of the Shadow Cabinet

Even when his party was out of power, Timothy Yeo continued to play a significant role in shaping Conservative policy and strategy. Between 1998 and 2005, he held various positions within the Shadow Cabinet, the official opposition's alternative government. During these years, he served under three different Conservative Party leaders: William Hague, Iain Duncan Smith, and Michael Howard. His consistent presence in the Shadow Cabinet demonstrated his experience and influence within the party, as he helped to scrutinize government policy, propose alternative approaches, and prepare the Conservatives for a return to power.

Frequently Asked Questions About Timothy Yeo

Who is Timothy Stephen Kenneth Yeo?
Timothy Stephen Kenneth Yeo is a British politician and a long-serving member of the Conservative Party, known for his parliamentary career spanning over three decades.
What constituency did Timothy Yeo represent?
He represented the constituency of South Suffolk as a Member of Parliament (MP) from the 1983 United Kingdom general election until 2015.
What prominent government role did he hold?
Timothy Yeo served as the Minister for the Environment and Countryside from 1993 to 1994 in Prime Minister John Major's government.
Did he hold positions in opposition?
Yes, he was a member of the Shadow Cabinet from 1998 to 2005, serving under Conservative Party leaders William Hague, Iain Duncan Smith, and Michael Howard.
Why did his parliamentary career end in 2015?
His tenure as MP for South Suffolk concluded in 2015 when he was deselected by his local constituency party.