Karl Turner, English lawyer and politician

Karl William Turner, born on 15 April 1971, is a prominent British politician who has dedicated his career to public service within the Labour Party. A familiar face in East Yorkshire politics, he has represented the constituency of Kingston upon Hull East as a Member of Parliament (MP) since his initial election in 2010, securing his seat in several subsequent general elections.

Parliamentary Career and Representation

Since first entering the House of Commons, Karl Turner has been a consistent voice for his constituents in Kingston upon Hull East. This constituency, known for its strong industrial heritage and vibrant communities along the Humber Estuary, has historically been a Labour stronghold, and Turner's continued representation underscores his deep roots and commitment to the area. As an MP, his responsibilities involve scrutinising government policy, debating legislation, and advocating for the interests of the people he represents both locally and nationally.

Roles within the Shadow Cabinet

Turner has also played significant roles within the Labour Party's Shadow Cabinet, contributing to the party's efforts to hold the government of the day to account and to develop alternative policy proposals. In January 2016, during Jeremy Corbyn's leadership of the Labour Party, Turner was appointed as the Shadow Attorney General for England and Wales. In this capacity, he shadowed the government's chief legal adviser, critiquing legal policy and offering the Labour Party's perspective on justice matters. However, his tenure in this high-profile role was relatively brief; he resigned in June of that same year, a period marked by considerable political turbulence within the Labour Party and the broader national landscape following the EU referendum.

Following this, Turner returned to the Shadow Cabinet in a different capacity. From 2017 to 2020, he served as the Shadow Shipping, Aviation and Road Safety Minister, operating within the larger Shadow Transport team. In this role, he focused on scrutinising government policy and advocating for Labour's positions on vital issues related to maritime industries, air travel, and road infrastructure and safety – areas crucial to the UK economy and daily life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When was Karl Turner born?

Karl William Turner was born on 15 April 1971.

Which political party does Karl Turner belong to?

He is a member of the Labour Party.

Which constituency does Karl Turner represent as an MP?

He represents Kingston upon Hull East.

Since when has Karl Turner been an MP?

He has served as the Member of Parliament for Kingston upon Hull East since 2010.

What was Karl Turner's role as Shadow Attorney General?

As Shadow Attorney General for England and Wales, he was the Labour Party's spokesperson on legal matters, shadowing the government's Attorney General and holding them accountable on issues of law and justice.

Why did Karl Turner resign as Shadow Attorney General in 2016?

His resignation in June 2016 occurred during a period of significant political upheaval within the Labour Party following the UK's EU referendum, which saw a number of resignations from the Shadow Cabinet.

What ministerial roles did Karl Turner hold in the Shadow Transport team?

From 2017 to 2020, he served as the Shadow Shipping, Aviation and Road Safety Minister.