Meg Hillier, English journalist and politician, Shadow Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change

Dame Margaret Olivia Hillier (born on 14 February 1969), universally known as Meg Hillier, is a prominent British politician representing the Labour and Co-operative parties. Her distinguished career in public service began officially with her election as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Hackney South and Shoreditch in the 2005 general election. Beyond her foundational role as a constituency MP, Ms. Hillier has held significant positions within both government and opposition, and notably, she currently chairs one of Parliament's most influential committees, the Public Accounts Committee.

Early Political Career and Election to Parliament

Born in London, Meg Hillier's journey into national politics culminated in her successful bid for the Hackney South and Shoreditch constituency. This East London seat, known for its vibrant diversity and significant urban development, first elected her to the House of Commons in the landmark 2005 general election. As a Labour and Co-operative politician, she represents a tradition that combines democratic socialist principles with a commitment to co-operative values, often focusing on community empowerment and ethical business practices. Her consistent re-election in subsequent general elections underscores strong local support and recognition of her dedication to her constituents.

Government and Shadow Cabinet Roles

Following the 2005 election, Meg Hillier quickly rose through the ranks, serving as a junior government minister from 2007 to 2010. During this period, she held the crucial role of Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Identity at the Home Office, where she was responsible for policy areas including identity cards and the UK's passport services. After Labour moved into opposition in 2010, Ms. Hillier took on a significant portfolio in the Shadow Cabinet. She served as the Shadow Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, playing a key role in scrutinising government policy and shaping Labour's alternative proposals on vital environmental and energy issues. Her tenure in this shadow role concluded in the Labour Party's October 2011 reshuffle, when she was succeeded by fellow Labour MP Caroline Flint.

Distinguished Scrutiny: Chair of the Public Accounts Committee

Perhaps Meg Hillier's most influential role to date began in 2015 when she was elected Chair of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), a position she has held continuously since. The PAC is one of the oldest and most respected select committees of the House of Commons, tasked with scrutinising the value for money of government expenditure, ensuring accountability for public funds, and examining the economy, efficiency, and effectiveness with which government departments and public bodies use taxpayers' money. As Chair, Ms. Hillier has led numerous high-profile inquiries into critical areas such as major infrastructure projects, public service delivery, and the government's financial management, playing a vital role in upholding parliamentary oversight. Her leadership of this cross-party committee highlights her reputation for meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to public accountability.

Frequently Asked Questions about Meg Hillier

When was Meg Hillier first elected as an MP?

Meg Hillier was first elected as the Member of Parliament for Hackney South and Shoreditch at the 2005 general election.

What is the significance of being a "Labour and Co-operative" politician?

Being a Labour and Co-operative politician means she is a member of both the Labour Party and the Co-operative Party. This dual affiliation reflects a commitment to both democratic socialist principles and the values of the co-operative movement, often focusing on community empowerment, mutual aid, and ethical business practices.

What government role did Meg Hillier hold?

From 2007 to 2010, Meg Hillier served as a junior government minister, specifically as the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Identity at the Home Office.

What is Meg Hillier's current prominent role in Parliament?

Meg Hillier currently chairs the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), a highly influential parliamentary committee responsible for scrutinising the value for money of government spending and holding departments accountable for their financial management.

Who succeeded Meg Hillier as Shadow Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change?

Caroline Flint succeeded Meg Hillier as Shadow Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change during the Labour Party's October 2011 reshuffle.