Leon Brittan, English lawyer and politician, Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills (b. 1939)

Leon Brittan, Baron Brittan of Spennithorne (1939-2015), was a distinguished British Conservative politician and eminent barrister whose career significantly shaped both domestic UK policy and European international relations. Born on 25 September 1939, he dedicated decades to public service, transitioning from a prominent role in the British Parliament and Margaret Thatcher's government to a pivotal position within the European Commission.

Early Political Career and Parliamentary Service

After a successful career as a barrister, Leon Brittan entered the House of Commons, representing the constituency of Cleveland and Redcar from 1974 to 1988. His keen intellect and legal background quickly propelled him through the ranks of the Conservative Party. He became a trusted figure in Margaret Thatcher's administration, holding a series of increasingly influential ministerial portfolios. Before his tenure as Home Secretary, he notably served as Chief Secretary to the Treasury from 1981 to 1983, a crucial role in managing public expenditure and economic policy during a period of significant reform.

Ministerial Leadership: Home Secretary and Beyond

One of Leon Brittan's most significant domestic appointments was as Home Secretary, a position he held from 1983 to 1985. During this demanding period, he was responsible for law and order, policing, immigration, and security. His tenure coincided with the highly contentious 1984-85 miners' strike, a defining industrial dispute that presented immense challenges to public order and police resources. Brittan navigated this complex landscape, upholding the government's stance on industrial relations. Following his time at the Home Office, he served as Secretary of State for Trade and Industry from 1985 to 1986. It was in this role that he became embroiled in the "Westland affair," a major political controversy involving competing bids for the helicopter manufacturer Westland Plc, which ultimately led to his resignation from the Cabinet in January 1986.

A Decade at the Heart of Europe: European Commissioner

Despite the domestic political turbulence, Leon Brittan's expertise in trade and international affairs made him a natural fit for European diplomacy. From 1989 to 1999, he served two terms as a European Commissioner, playing a critical role in shaping the European Union's external policies. Initially, he held portfolios for competition policy and financial services before becoming Vice-President responsible for External Economic Relations and Trade Policy. In this capacity, he was instrumental in significant multilateral trade negotiations, including the Uruguay Round which led to the creation of the World Trade Organization (WTO). His efforts contributed substantially to strengthening the EU's global economic influence and liberalizing international trade. He became a leading voice for free trade and global cooperation on the world stage.

Later Life and Legacy

After concluding his service at the European Commission, Leon Brittan was elevated to the peerage as Baron Brittan of Spennithorne in 2000, taking his seat in the House of Lords. He remained an active and respected voice in public debate, contributing his vast experience to discussions on economic policy, international relations, and justice. Leon Brittan passed away on 21 January 2015, leaving behind a legacy as a dedicated public servant who navigated complex political landscapes both nationally and internationally.

Frequently Asked Questions about Leon Brittan

Who was Leon Brittan?

Leon Brittan was a prominent British Conservative politician and barrister who served in senior ministerial roles in Margaret Thatcher's government, including Home Secretary, and later as a European Commissioner for a decade, focusing on trade and external relations.

What were his key ministerial roles in the UK government?

Within Margaret Thatcher's government, he served as Chief Secretary to the Treasury (1981-1983), Home Secretary (1983-1985), and Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1985-1986).

When did Leon Brittan serve as European Commissioner?

He served as a European Commissioner from 1989 to 1999, holding significant portfolios such as competition, financial services, and notably, external economic relations and trade policy, where he played a key role in global trade negotiations.

What was the significance of his role as Home Secretary?

As Home Secretary from 1983 to 1985, Leon Brittan was responsible for law and order during a particularly challenging period, which included the impactful 1984-85 miners' strike.

What was the "Westland affair" and how did it affect him?

The "Westland affair" was a political crisis in 1986 involving a dispute over the future of a British helicopter company. Leon Brittan, then Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, became deeply involved, which ultimately led to his resignation from the Cabinet.