Eric Pickles, English politician, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government

Eric Jack Pickles, Baron Pickles, born on 20 April 1952, has carved out a distinguished and multifaceted career in British politics as a prominent member of the Conservative Party. His journey through Westminster has seen him hold significant roles, from a dedicated Member of Parliament to a Cabinet Minister, and later, an influential voice in international remembrance and anti-corruption efforts. Elevated to the peerage as Baron Pickles, he continues his public service in the House of Lords, lending his extensive experience to various causes.

Parliamentary Career and Party Leadership

Lord Pickles first entered the House of Commons, the lower chamber of the UK Parliament, in 1992, representing the constituency of Brentwood and Ongar in Essex. He served the constituents of this area diligently for over two decades, until his decision to step down at the 2017 general election. During his time as an MP, his commitment and political acumen were recognised within the party, leading to his appointment as Chairman of the Conservative Party from 2009 to 2010. This crucial role involved overseeing party organisation, campaigning efforts, and strategic communications, particularly vital during the run-up to the 2010 general election.

Cabinet Service as Secretary of State

Following the 2010 general election, which saw the formation of a coalition government, Eric Pickles took on a pivotal executive role within David Cameron's Cabinet. He was appointed Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, a position he held from 2010 to 2015. This significant brief encompassed a wide array of responsibilities, including overseeing local councils across England, housing policy, planning regulations, and urban regeneration. During his tenure, he played a key role in implementing the government's agenda for localism and decentralisation, navigating complex issues relating to public services and local authority funding in a period of considerable economic challenge.

Post-Cabinet Roles and International Engagement

After leaving the Cabinet in 2015, Lord Pickles continued to serve the nation in other vital capacities. He was appointed the United Kingdom Anti-Corruption Champion, a role he held from 2015 to 2017. In this position, he worked to promote integrity, combat bribery, and foster international cooperation in the fight against corruption, both domestically and on the global stage. Perhaps one of his most enduring and profound contributions has been his role as the UK Special Envoy for Post-Holocaust issues, a position he has held since 2015. This crucial appointment underscores the UK government's unwavering commitment to Holocaust remembrance, education, and the ongoing fight against antisemitism and other forms of hatred. Even after stepping down as an MP in 2017, Lord Pickles has continued in this vital Special Envoy role, serving under successive Prime Ministers, including Theresa May and Boris Johnson, highlighting the cross-party importance and continuity of this mission.

Continued Service in the House of Lords

Upon his departure from the House of Commons, Eric Pickles was granted a life peerage, becoming Baron Pickles, which allowed him to continue his public service in the House of Lords. The House of Lords, the second chamber of the UK Parliament, provides a forum for scrutiny of legislation, national debate, and the leveraging of expertise from its members. In this capacity, he maintains an active political presence. He currently serves as the chairman of Conservative Friends of Israel in the House of Lords. This organisation plays a significant role in fostering understanding and support for the State of Israel within the Conservative Party, promoting dialogue and engagement on Middle Eastern affairs.

FAQs

Who is Eric Pickles?

Eric Jack Pickles, Baron Pickles, is a prominent British Conservative Party politician who served as a Member of Parliament for Brentwood and Ongar from 1992 to 2017, a Cabinet Minister, and continues to serve as a life peer in the House of Lords.

What was his role in David Cameron's Cabinet?

He served as the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government from 2010 to 2015, responsible for local councils, housing, planning, and urban regeneration policies.

What is the UK Special Envoy for Post-Holocaust issues?

This is a significant diplomatic role focused on ensuring Holocaust remembrance, promoting education about the Holocaust, and actively combating antisemitism and other forms of prejudice. Lord Pickles has held this position since 2015.

Is he still active in politics?

Yes, while he is no longer a Member of Parliament, he serves as a life peer (Baron Pickles) in the House of Lords and continues his important work as the UK Special Envoy for Post-Holocaust issues.

What is Conservative Friends of Israel (CFI)?

CFI is an organisation within the Conservative Party that aims to strengthen the relationship between the UK and Israel, promoting understanding and support for Israel among Conservative politicians and members. Lord Pickles currently chairs this group in the House of Lords.