Dawn Primarolo, English politician

Baroness Dawn Primarolo, born on 2 May 1954, is a notable British Labour Party politician whose career spans several decades in public service. She is widely recognized for her dedicated representation of the Bristol South constituency in the House of Commons, where she served as a Member of Parliament (MP) for an impressive 28 years, from 1987 until her decision to step down in 2015.

During her extensive parliamentary career, Baroness Primarolo took on significant governmental and parliamentary responsibilities. From June 2009 to May 2010, she held a key ministerial position as the Minister of State for Children, Young People and Families within the then-Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF). This role placed her at the forefront of policy development concerning the welfare and education of young people across the United Kingdom, reflecting the Labour government's commitment to these critical areas.

Following her ministerial tenure, she was elected by her peers to serve as a Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons from 2010 until her departure from the lower house in 2015. In this crucial role, she presided over parliamentary debates, ensured adherence to parliamentary rules and procedures, and maintained order during proceedings, thereby playing a vital part in the functioning of British democracy.

Her significant contributions to political service were formally recognized in the 2014 Birthday Honours, when she was appointed a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE). This esteemed honour acknowledges her long-standing commitment and service to the public and the political landscape of the United Kingdom. Upon the dissolution of Parliament in 2015, marking the end of her career as an MP, she was further honoured with a nomination for a life peerage in the 2015 Dissolution Honours, leading to her elevation to the House of Lords as Baroness Primarolo.

Key Aspects of Baroness Primarolo's Career

• Long-Serving MP: Represented Bristol South for 28 years (1987-2015), demonstrating consistent electoral support and dedicated service to her constituents.
• Ministerial Responsibility: Served as Minister of State for Children, Young People and Families, highlighting her involvement in social policy and welfare.
• Parliamentary Leadership: Her role as Deputy Speaker showcased her ability to manage parliamentary proceedings and uphold democratic principles.
• Significant Honours: Recognised with a DBE for her political service, and later a life peerage, marking her transition to the House of Lords.

FAQs About Baroness Dawn Primarolo

What is a Baroness?

A Baroness is a title held by a female member of the peerage in the United Kingdom. In Baroness Primarolo's case, it is a life peerage, meaning she was appointed to the House of Lords for the duration of her life, rather than through hereditary right. This allows individuals with significant public service experience to contribute to legislative processes in the upper chamber of Parliament.

What does a Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons do?

The Deputy Speakers assist the Speaker of the House of Commons in presiding over debates, maintaining order, and enforcing parliamentary rules. They sit in the Speaker's chair when the Speaker is not present, ensuring the smooth operation of parliamentary business and impartiality in proceedings.

What is the significance of a DBE?

DBE stands for Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire. It is a high honour awarded by the British monarch to individuals, typically women, for significant achievements or service to the nation. It is the female equivalent of a KBE (Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire) and entitles the recipient to be addressed as "Dame."

Why did Dawn Primarolo stand down as an MP in 2015?

After nearly three decades of service in the House of Commons, many long-serving Members of Parliament choose to retire from frontline politics. Her decision to step down in 2015 was a personal one, coinciding with her nomination for a life peerage, which allowed her to continue contributing to public life in the House of Lords.

What are 'Dissolution Honours'?

Dissolution Honours are a list of peerages and other awards granted by the monarch on the advice of the outgoing Prime Minister following the dissolution of Parliament, typically before a general election. They are often used to reward long-serving MPs or others who have contributed significantly to public life or politics, enabling them to continue their public service in the House of Lords.