Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

George Howarth

Sir George Edward Howarth (born 29 June 1949) is a former British politician who represented Knowsley as from 1986 to 2024. Elected initially in a 1986 for Knowsley North following boundary changes and reconfigurations, Howarth maintained continuous service through subsequent elections until standing down ahead of the 2024 general election. He served in junior ministerial roles under the government, including as at the from 1997 to 1999, with responsibilities encompassing aspects of and community safety. Earlier, as an opposition spokesperson, he covered the environment from 1989 to 1992. Knighted for political and public service, Howarth's parliamentary tenure spanned nearly four decades, marked by consistent advocacy for constituencies amid economic and social challenges in the region.

Early Life and Pre-Parliamentary Career

Education and Formative Influences

George Edward Howarth was born on 29 June 1949 in , then in and now part of , an industrial area characterized by post-war manufacturing and activities that fostered strong working-class communities. Howarth received his secondary education at Huyton Secondary School, a local state institution, before advancing to Kirkby College of Further Education for additional vocational training. He then pursued higher education at Liverpool Polytechnic, focusing on practical disciplines, and obtained further qualifications from the . These educational experiences, emphasizing technical and applied skills amid Merseyside's economic reliance on and related trades, preceded Howarth's early professional roles as an and , which provided grounding in labor-intensive sectors prior to his entry into .

Local Government Roles

George Howarth was elected as a to Huyton Urban District Council in 1971, representing the and serving until the council's abolition in 1974 as part of local government reorganisation. He continued his service on the newly formed Knowsley Borough Council from 1975 to 1986, maintaining a focus on municipal issues in the Merseyside area. Within Knowsley Borough Council, Howarth advanced to the position of Deputy Leader from 1982 to 1983, a role that involved oversight of council operations during a time of economic strain from deindustrialisation, including factory closures and rising in the region exceeding 15% by the mid-1980s. His tenure coincided with Labour-led efforts to manage local budgets under constraints, such as the pushback against rate-capping policies introduced in , though Knowsley avoided the most severe financial penalties faced by other metropolitan councils. Howarth's council work emphasised practical local , including responses to needs and services in an area marked by post-industrial transition, but detailed records of individual policy initiatives or quantifiable outcomes like specific infrastructure projects under his deputy leadership remain limited in public documentation. No major fiscal mismanagement or administrative inefficiencies have been substantively attributed to his period in office in available parliamentary or archives.

Parliamentary Career

Initial Election and Opposition Years (1986–1997)

George Howarth was selected as the Labour candidate for the Knowsley North by-election amid opposition from the Militant Tendency, a hard-left faction within the party that had gained influence in Merseyside politics during the 1980s; supporters of Militant protested his imposition by party leadership, viewing him as a moderate aligned against their agenda. The by-election, triggered by the resignation of incumbent MP Robert Kilroy-Silk, occurred on 13 November 1986, with Howarth retaining the safe Labour seat. He was re-elected in the 1987 general election and again in 1992, maintaining strong majorities in the working-class constituency characterized by high unemployment and industrial decline. During these years in opposition under leaders and , Howarth positioned himself as a resistant to intra-party extremism, particularly the Militant Tendency's disruptive influence in and surrounding areas, which had led to financial crises and expulsions under Kinnock's modernization efforts. He advanced to frontbench roles as opposition spokesperson on the environment from 1989 to 1992, then from 1993 to 1994, before shifting to home affairs in 1994 until 1997, contributing to scrutiny of Conservative policies on pollution control, urban regeneration, and local authority powers. Howarth's parliamentary work emphasized Merseyside-specific concerns, including persistent —peaking at around 25% in Knowsley by 1991—and inadequate stock amid , where he advocated for targeted interventions like council maintenance and job creation schemes to address the region's economic stagnation. Boundary revisions implemented for the 1997 general election redesignated his constituency as Knowsley North and Sefton East, reflecting adjustments to incorporate adjacent areas while preserving its dominance.

Government Positions under New Labour (1997–2001)

Upon the Labour Party's victory in the 1997 , George Howarth was appointed at the , serving from 6 May 1997 to 29 July 1999. In this junior ministerial role, shared with colleagues such as O'Brien, Howarth handled responsibilities including , where he oversaw the introduction of expanded postal and provisions to increase voter accessibility, enacted through amendments to the Representation of the People Act. He also contributed to regulations, supporting the implementation of the Fire Precautions (Workplace) Regulations 1997, which mandated risk assessments and evacuation plans for non-domestic premises to mitigate workplace fire hazards. These efforts aligned with 's emphasis on modernizing public safety and democratic participation, though Howarth maintained a low public profile throughout his tenure, with limited attribution of direct policy outcomes to his specific interventions. In July 1999, Howarth transferred to the as , a position he held until 7 2001 following the general election. Reporting to and later Mo Mowlam's successors, his portfolio focused on supporting the post-Good Friday Agreement peace process, including logistical aspects of implementation and cross-border cooperation amid ongoing decommissioning challenges. During this period, Troubles-related deaths declined to historically low levels—eight in 1999, 18 in 2000, and 16 in 2001—reflecting broader stabilization from the 1998 agreement rather than isolated ministerial actions, as violence had already trended downward from peaks exceeding 400 annually in the early . Howarth's role involved parliamentary oversight of security normalization, but empirical metrics on violence reduction predate his appointment, with causal factors more attributable to the agreement's ceasefires and international mediation than junior-level . Howarth departed government in the June 2001 reshuffle, replaced by , amid New Labour's post-election cabinet adjustments without publicized performance critiques or personal resignation statement. His time in office exemplified the centralizing tendencies of the administration, where junior ministers executed directives from with limited autonomy, contributing to efficient but top-down policy delivery in security and constitutional domains, though quantifiable impacts on crime or unrest remained modest and intertwined with wider governmental strategies.

Backbench and Committee Work (2001–2010)

After resigning from his ministerial role in June 2001, Howarth resumed duties as a backbench , emphasising parliamentary scrutiny independent of government direction. He concentrated efforts on constituency representation in Knowsley while engaging in committee work to oversee executive accountability. Howarth joined the on 15 May 2002, serving until 10 September 2003, where he contributed to inquiries on public sector efficiency and value for money in . In 2004, he participated in the Joint Committee on the Draft , reviewing proposed reforms to from 20 July 2004 to 11 July 2005. He chaired the Armed Forces Committee during its 2005–2006 session, guiding scrutiny of affecting military discipline and operations. From 2005 to 2010, he sat on the Modernisation of the Committee, advising on procedural reforms to enhance ary effectiveness. Throughout the decade, Howarth intervened in Commons debates on defence and public expenditure, advocating pragmatic assessments over strict party alignment, as seen in his measured critiques of policies like foundation hospitals and university tuition fees. His backbench tenure prioritised local economic advocacy in Knowsley, including pushes for improvements amid regional deindustrialisation, though specific outcomes tied to his efforts remain documented primarily in records of casework representations.

Post-2010 Activities and Constituency Focus

Howarth retained his position as for Knowsley after the 2010 boundary review, which reformed the constituency from the former Knowsley North and Seaforth while maintaining its core stronghold characteristics. He won re-election in the 2010 general election with a of 25,690 over the Liberal Democrats. Subsequent victories included majorities of 34,655 in 2015 (voter turnout 64.1%), 42,214 in 2017 (turnout 67.9%), and 39,942 in 2019 (turnout 65.3%), reflecting consistent strong support in a seat with limited boundary alterations until 2024. In constituency advocacy, Howarth prioritized local industrial and environmental challenges, particularly the Industria chipboard factory in , which faced ongoing safety hazards, fires, and resident complaints over emissions and noise. After a November 2011 fire damaged the site, he urged permanent closure in statements, citing multiple prior incidents including worker fatalities, and tabled parliamentary questions and an in May 2013 pressing for regulatory intervention until safety was assured. The factory shut in September 2012, eliminating 220 jobs amid unviable operations. Howarth opposed post-2010 austerity policies in parliamentary contributions, contending they stifled growth and overburdened Knowsley's working-class communities through cuts and reduced investment. He argued in that had demonstrably failed, with low- and middle-income households bearing disproportionate costs while failing to deliver fiscal stability. On Brexit, he acknowledged the constituency's 65% Leave vote in but warned of adverse effects on local from barriers, describing no-deal outcomes as risking the "bleakest future" via supply chain disruptions and higher costs. As co-chair of the on Energy-Intensive Industries, he led evidence-based examinations of policy shifts, including EU withdrawal implications for sectors like chemicals and metals reliant on stable energy pricing and exports.

Political Positions and Legislative Record

Stances on Key Issues

Howarth has advocated for Israel's right to self-defence in response to threats, while emphasising adherence to international humanitarian law and the need for humanitarian relief in Gaza. In a 16 October 2023 parliamentary debate on Israel and Gaza, he questioned the Prime Minister's plans for United Nations involvement in delivering aid to the region amid escalating conflict. During a 20 May 2024 ministerial statement on the same topic, he reiterated acceptance of Israel's defensive rights but stressed proportionality under international norms. As a supporter of Labour Friends of Israel, an organisation promoting strong UK-Israel ties, Howarth aligned with efforts to counter threats like Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps, co-signing a 17 April 2024 cross-party letter urging its proscription as a terrorist entity. On immigration, Howarth has supported measures to limit inflows, arguing that the UK's capacity to absorb migrants is finite and requires stricter controls to manage local pressures. In debates on the Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Bill in 2023–2024, he stated that uncontrolled migration undermines public services and community cohesion, calling for a comprehensive system balancing fairness with enforcement. Addressing partner and spousal visas on 23 April 2024, he opposed unchecked entries, insisting on a plan that prevents exploitation while recognising legitimate cases, and critiqued government rhetoric for failing to address root causes like illegal crossings. Regarding security and extremism, Howarth has backed robust counter-terrorism frameworks to prevent radicalisation and protect communities. As chair of the Affairs Committee, he contributed to scrutiny of anti-extremism provisions in the 2014 Counter-Terrorism and Security Bill, advocating measures to disrupt terrorist financing and support without eroding . His involvement in earlier , including 2010 discussions on detainee and prevention strategies, reflected a focus on intelligence-led responses to domestic and overseas threats. In economic and fiscal matters, Howarth has expressed concerns over the long-term viability of public funding models, opposing tax hikes targeted at health and social care. His voting record shows consistent resistance to proposals for higher specific levies on these sectors between 2021 and 2022, prioritising sustainable allocation over reactive increases. He has highlighted disparities in local authority funding formulas, arguing in 2019 Finance Bill debates that they inadequately account for deprivation and council tax-raising capacities, potentially exacerbating regional inequalities. Queries on the financial sustainability of services like the Universal Postal Service underscore his emphasis on pragmatic budgeting amid demographic and operational strains.

Voting Patterns and Party Rebellions

George Howarth maintained a high degree of alignment with the whip throughout his parliamentary career, dissenting in 43 recorded instances across sessions from 1987 to 2024, equating to a rebellion rate of roughly 1-2% of whipped votes. This loyalty exceeded that of many moderate Labour MPs during the Corbyn leadership (2015–2020), when internal divisions led to elevated rebellion averages—often exceeding 10% on contentious issues like foreign intervention and implementation—reflecting Howarth's preference for party unity over ideological purity on the left. Key rebellions highlighted divergences from Corbyn-era orthodoxy, particularly on defence and . On 2 December 2015, Howarth voted in favour of authorizing airstrikes against ISIL in , defying the leadership's whipped opposition and joining 66 other MPs in a pro-intervention stance amid Corbyn's pacifist inclinations. Similarly, he supported nuclear deterrent renewal on 18 2016, backing the government's motion by a 472–117 margin despite Corbyn's vote against, underscoring a commitment to NATO-aligned defence priorities over unilateral disarmament advocacy. Regarding Brexit, Howarth's record showed resistance to reversing the 2016 outcome, as evidenced by his endorsement of a 2019 Labour plan prioritizing confirmatory votes on negotiated terms over an unconditional second , in line with his Leave-voting Knowsley constituency's 64% support for departure. He also voted for affirming parliamentary supremacy in EU withdrawal proceedings on 1 2019, diverging from party efforts to prioritize retention and contributing to cross-party pushes for orderly exit implementation. No recorded rebellions tied directly to antisemitism handling emerged, though his overall votes tilted toward pragmatic internationalism rather than . Earlier rebellions, such as 16 in the 2001–2005 session on reform and , further indicated selective independence on constitutional and matters.

Controversies and Criticisms

Libel Dispute with Media

In February 1996, George Howarth, then a Labour frontbench spokesman on the environment, initiated a libel action against newspaper over a parliamentary sketch published on 27 February 1996. The article, written by political sketchwriter , depicted Howarth's conduct during a debate in a manner that Howarth contended falsely implied dishonesty and misconduct, specifically portraying him as evasive or deceitful in his responses. The dispute arose amid internal Labour Party tensions in the mid-1990s, where factional rivalries between traditional left-wing elements and party modernisers under John Smith's leadership occasionally spilled into public scrutiny, though the specific claims in the lacked evidential basis beyond satirical interpretation. Howarth maintained that the piece damaged his reputation as a principled by insinuating untruthfulness without substantiation. The case settled out of court on 29 February 1996, with agreeing to pay undisclosed damages to Howarth and issuing an apology, acknowledging the article's defamatory implications. Howarth described the outcome as a vindication, emphasizing the need for accuracy in political reporting to prevent undue harm to public figures' integrity. This resolution highlighted constraints on journalistic licence in covering parliamentary proceedings, particularly when sketches veer into unsubstantiated personal attacks, reinforcing standards of factual restraint in media critiques of politicians during era-specific party strife.

Handling of Local Unrest and Immigration-Related Incidents

In February 2023, violent disorder erupted outside the Suites Hotel in , where asylum seekers were being housed by the , prompting a response from local MP Sir George Howarth that emphasized condemnation of far-right involvement while defending community tolerance. On 10 February, a initially organized against the hotel's use for migrant accommodation turned hostile, with demonstrators setting fire to a police van, throwing missiles at officers, and causing criminal damage; arrested 15 individuals, aged 13 to 54, including for violent disorder, and reported minor injuries to one officer and two bystanders. Howarth attributed the escalation to "misinformation" from an alleged incident involving hotel residents shared on —later investigated as a reported by asylum seekers on a pizza delivery driver—and urged a crackdown on far-right groups, stating in that such exploited legitimate concerns but that "there is never any excuse for violence." Howarth's handling drew praise from some quarters for de-escalation efforts, including coordination with to deploy a substantial response force and his public reassurance that "the people of Knowsley are not bigots" but welcoming to those fleeing peril, which aligned with local council statements rejecting as the core driver. Subsequent prosecutions, with at least eight individuals jailed by mid-2024 for roles in the , underscored the police-led he supported, while the was prioritized for asylum seeker dispersal in October 2023 under national policy shifts to reduce hotel reliance amid a backlog exceeding 45,000 cases. However, critics from right-leaning perspectives argued his focus on far-right agitators downplayed deeper causal factors, such as the Home Office's placement of over 50,000 asylum seekers in hotels nationwide without adequate local consultation, exacerbating strains in deprived areas like Knowsley—where exceeds 5% and shortages persist—leading to unaddressed resident fears over resource competition and integration failures. This approach reflected broader tensions in Howarth's constituency, where empirical data from prior years showed Knowsley accommodating disproportionate inflows relative to its economic capacity, with audits later confirming shortcomings in community impact assessments that fueled unrest beyond extremist orchestration. While Howarth highlighted post-riot deteriorations, including reported attacks on asylum seekers exiting the hotel in March 2023, detractors contended his prioritization of anti-extremism measures overlooked systemic migration pressures, such as unchecked crossings nearing 50,000 annually by 2023, which strained services and amplified cultural frictions without corresponding enforcement or skills-matching programs. analyses, including acknowledgments of localized grievances, suggest a more balanced realism—validating violence condemnations but necessitating reforms addressing root drivers like housing failures over ideological labeling.

Internal Party Conflicts

In December 2023, Howarth publicly described the era as "disastrous" and involving "shameful" , crediting with drawing a line under the period marked by internal chaos and leadership failures. He linked these shortcomings to the Party's handling of complaints, which the (EHRC) investigation in October 2020 identified as involving unlawful acts of harassment, discrimination against Jewish members, and political interference in complaint processes under Corbyn's leadership. The EHRC report documented over 200 complaints in 2019 alone, with evidence of inadequate training for staff and a culture that sometimes prioritized defending the leadership over addressing prejudice, contributing to a loss of trust among Jewish communities and broader voters. Howarth positioned himself within the Parliamentary Labour Party's (PLP) resistance to Corbyn, having been classified as "hostile" in a leaked 2016 party document amid efforts by Corbyn supporters to monitor and challenge moderate MPs. This stance manifested in actions such as his vote against readmitting , a Corbyn ally suspended over antisemitism-related conduct, in a June 2019 National Executive Committee decision. Such opposition from figures like Howarth, emphasizing empirical accountability over ideological loyalty, helped undermine Corbyn's position following the December 2019 general election, where Labour secured just 32.1% of the vote—its lowest share since 1935—and lost 59 seats, attributing defeats to perceived extremism and unresolved internal divisions. Howarth's advocacy contributed to the party's centrist pivot under Starmer, who won the leadership contest with 56.2% of the vote after Corbyn's resignation, restoring discipline and broadening appeal. Left-wing factions within countered that anti-Corbyn MPs, including Howarth, engaged in that alienated the membership base, which had surged to over 500,000 by 2016 under Corbyn's anti-austerity platform. However, data indicates a subsequent erosion: antisemitism complaints correlated with membership fluctuations, and post-2019 figures showed a net decline of around 200,000 members by 2025 compared to the Corbyn peak, alongside a vote share recovery to 33.7% under Starmer, suggesting that unresolved scandals and ideological had causal impacts on electoral viability beyond mere internal resistance.

Personal Life and Retirement

Family and Private Interests

Howarth married Julie Howarth, who served as his parliamentary office manager. He is the father of three children. His daughter Sián died on May 5, 2011, at age 24 from complications of , including , an involving insulin omission to control weight. Public records disclose no prominent hobbies or non-familial private pursuits. Howarth has received donations linked to juvenile research foundations, reflecting personal ties to through his daughter's condition.

Honours and Post-Parliamentary Transition

Howarth received a knighthood in the 2019 Queen's for parliamentary and political service, acknowledging his sustained representation of Knowsley constituents since his 1986 victory and roles including junior ministerial positions in the and . This honour, conferred amid his ongoing tenure, underscored the empirical rarity of his career longevity—spanning over three decades continuously in the , far exceeding the average service of approximately 10-15 years based on historical parliamentary data. On 6 June 2023, Howarth, then aged 73, announced he would not contest the next , marking the end of nearly 38 years as for Knowsley and predecessor seats Knowsley North and Knowsley North and Sefton East. He described the role as an "enormous privilege," framing his departure as completion of extended public service rather than prompted by health concerns or policy disillusionment, though his advanced age and the demands of repeated re-elections logically suggest a generational handover to sustain institutional renewal. This decision aligned with broader patterns among long-serving MPs in 2023, prioritizing constituency continuity while avoiding overextension in a politically volatile . Howarth's parliamentary tenure concluded with the on 30 May 2024, after which he ceased formal duties, including his recent chairing of committees on protections and economic matters. Post-retirement engagements remained limited in public record as of late 2024, indicating a deliberate pivot from frontline politics toward private pursuits, consistent with causal factors of fatigue from prolonged exposure to legislative grind and electoral cycles absent explicit continuation in advocacy roles.

References

  1. [1]
    UK | Politics | George Howarth - BBC NEWS
    Oct 22, 2002 · Date of birth. 29 June 1949 · Political profile. George Howarth has been an MP since 1986, and served as a minister throughout the 1997 ...Missing: biography | Show results with:biography
  2. [2]
    Parliamentary career for Sir George Howarth - MPs and Lords
    The Rt Hon Sir George Howarth is no longer a Member, but was most recently the Labour MP for Knowsley, and left the Commons on 30 May 2024.Missing: biography | Show results with:biography
  3. [3]
    Labour MP Sir George Howarth to step down after nearly 40 years
    Jun 6, 2023 · Sir George, 73, was first elected as MP for Knowsley North in 1986 after a by-election. He became Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for ...Missing: biography | Show results with:biography
  4. [4]
    George Howarth MP - Who is he? - Politics.co.uk
    Born on Merseyside in 1949, Howarth was educated at Huyton Secondary School, Kirkby College of Further Education, Liverpool Polytechnic and the University of ...Missing: biography | Show results with:biography
  5. [5]
    [PDF] Rt Hon George Howarth - Party Parliamentary Light Rail Group
    This meeting by invitation only, where MPs,. Stakeholders etc., within the ... Parliamentary career. Opposition Spokesperson for: the Environment 1989-92 ...
  6. [6]
    Sir George Howarth MP - Sustaining education, training and ...
    Born on Merseyside, he was educated at Huyton Secondary School, Kirkby College of Further Education, Liverpool Polytechnic and the University of Salford. ...Missing: biography | Show results with:biography
  7. [7]
    Knowsley: Labour Party candidate George Howarth - Liverpool Echo
    Feb 1, 2010 · In 1971 he was elected as a councillor to the Huyton District Council and served in its successor the Knowsley Borough Council until his ...
  8. [8]
    Labour & Liverpool: the city that reveals the cracks in the party
    Sep 22, 2016 · ... George Howarth as the party's candidate in what was then Knowsley North. On a dark, wet night, on his way into a party meeting, he had to ...
  9. [9]
    [PDF] Rally' a huge success
    Nov 21, 1986 · right wing candidate George. Howarth seriously eroded. Labour's vote. ... "Militant Tendency demonstrated its defiance with a glossy 'high ...
  10. [10]
    George Howarth - Parallel Parliament
    George Howarth has voted in 2949 divisions, and 26 times against the majority of their Party. View Rebellions.Missing: politician | Show results with:politician
  11. [11]
    Chapter 20 – Towards Expulsions | Socialist Alternative
    Howarth vehemently denied this, saying that he had bashed Militant and would bash as hard, if not harder, than the Liberals.
  12. [12]
    House of Commons Hansard Debates for 26 Nov 2009 (pt 0014)
    However, in 1991, at the height of the last Conservative Government's downturn, unemployment in Knowsley as a whole, including my constituency, stood at 25 per ...
  13. [13]
    George Howarth to stand down as Knowsley MP after more than 30 ...
    Jun 7, 2023 · Born in Prescot, Mr Howarth held junior a number of junior roles in Tony Blair's government. He was Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State ...Missing: biography | Show results with:biography
  14. [14]
    [PDF] birthday honours 2019 – high awards - gov.uk
    In Parliament, George served as a Minister in the Home Office between 1997-1999 and was responsible for introducing postal and proxy voting in elections. He ...
  15. [15]
    The Fire Precautions (Workplace) Regulations 1997
    These Regulations may be cited as the Fire Precautions (Workplace) Regulations 1997 and shall come into force on 1st December 1997.
  16. [16]
    CAIN: Issues: Violence - Deaths during the Conflict - Ulster University
    Various sources list deaths from the Troubles, including Sutton Index (1969-2001), McKeown's database (1969-2001), and a draft list (2002-present). McKeown's ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  17. [17]
    Trimble repeats resignation threat - RTE
    Des Browne, MP for Kilmarnock in Scotland, replaces George Howarth, and will cover Criminal Justice, Victim Issues and Human Rights.
  18. [18]
    https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/shared/election2010/results/constituency/c48.stm
  19. [19]
    Election result for Knowsley (Constituency) - MPs and Lords
    The 2015 General Election was held on 7 May 2015. A total of 5 candidates ran for election. Summary. LAB. Labour Hold. Majority. 34,655. Electorate. 79,108.
  20. [20]
    Election result for Knowsley (Constituency) - MPs and Lords
    The 2017 General Election was held on 8 June 2017. A total of 5 candidates ran for election. Summary. LAB. Labour Hold. Majority. 42,214. Electorate. 81,760.
  21. [21]
    Knowsley general election - December 2019
    Labour hold by George Howarth with a majority of 39,942 - 72.7% - on a turnout of 65.3%. An electorate of 84,082, having a valid vote count of 54,938 and an ...
  22. [22]
    Sonae fire: George Howarth MP calls for factory closure - BBC News
    A Merseyside chipboard factory damaged by a large fire is facing calls from a local MP to be closed permanently. George Howarth, Labour MP for Knowsley, ...
  23. [23]
    Sonae Factory (Kirkby) - Hansard - UK Parliament
    Feb 27, 2007 · The Sonae chipboard factory in Kirkby in my constituency has been a source of controversy and concern since it first opened in January 2000.
  24. [24]
    Knowsley MP George Howarth calls for Sonae closure in parliament ...
    May 7, 2013 · A MERSEYSIDE MP called for the permanent closure of a fire-hit woodchip plant. Knowsley MP George Howarth tabled an early day motion in the ...
  25. [25]
    Knowsley Sonae chipboard factory closure - BBC News
    Sep 14, 2012 · The Sonae chipboard plant in Merseyside has announced it is to close immediately, with the loss of 220 jobs.
  26. [26]
    The Economy and Work - Hansard - UK Parliament
    May 26, 2016 · The Gracious Speech could have announced an emergency summer Budget, putting an end to all the austerity that has strangled economic growth and ...
  27. [27]
    George Howarth extracts from Queen's Speech: Implications for ...
    Voters are sick to their hind teeth with austerity, which does not work. Low and middle-income earners are taking all the pain, and the high-income earners are ...Missing: response | Show results with:response
  28. [28]
    George Howarth MP for Knowsley on a deal Brexit "bleakest future ...
    May 12, 2019 · The idea that we're going to strike up some wonderful trade deal with the United States that will see us out of all of the problems we've got.Missing: stance | Show results with:stance
  29. [29]
    [Mr George Howarth in the Chair] — Onshore Oil ... - TheyWorkForYou
    I am the chair of the chemical industry all-party group and co-chair of the energy-intensive industries all-party group. The UK chemical and pharmaceutical ...
  30. [30]
    George Howarth extracts from Israel and Gaza (16th October 2023)
    Oct 16, 2023 · What role does the Prime Minister see for the United Nations in providing much-needed humanitarian relief in the region, particularly in Gaza, ...Missing: stances | Show results with:stances
  31. [31]
    Israel and Gaza - Hansard - UK Parliament
    May 20, 2024 · Gentleman accepts that Israel has the right to self-defence, but says that it must exercise it within international humanitarian law. He makes ...Missing: stances | Show results with:stances
  32. [32]
    LFI parliamentarians sign cross-party letter calling for proscription of ...
    Apr 17, 2024 · 134 parliamentarians, including 14 Labour MPs and peers, have today signed a cross-party letter to the Prime Minister calling for the ...
  33. [33]
    [PDF] labour - friends lfi - of israel - The Electronic Intifada
    • Sir George Howarth MP. • Dan Jarvis MP. • Daniel Johnson MSP. • Darren Jones MP. • Kevan Jones MP. • Mike Kane MP. • Liz Kendall MP. • Rt. Hon David Lammy MP.
  34. [34]
    George Howarth - All Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration ...
    For the purpose of clarity, let me say at the outset that our country's capacity to admit migrants is finite. It therefore follows that we need a much more ...
  35. [35]
    Partner and Spousal Visas: Minimum Income - TheyWorkForYou
    Apr 23, 2024 · Let me be absolutely clear: nobody wants uncontrolled migration. What people want is a comprehensive plan that is fair and works in the ...
  36. [36]
    Partner and Spousal Visas: Minimum Income - Hansard
    Apr 23, 2024 · I see the Minister shaking his head, so I will put my points to him. The Government have talked about migration as a problem, ...
  37. [37]
    George Howarth extracts from Counter-Terrorism and Security Bill ...
    George Howarth contributions to the 9th December 2014 Counter-Terrorism and Security Bill debate Tue 9th Dec 2014 - Commons - Counter-Terrorism and Security ...
  38. [38]
    Spoken contributions of Sir George Howarth - MPs and Lords
    Prevention and Suppression of Terrorism. 14 July 2010. Commons Chamber. Show contributions. Treatment of Detainees. 6 July 2010. Commons Chamber. Show ...
  39. [39]
    Voting record - George Howarth, former MP, Knowsley
    How George Howarth voted on Environmental Issues #. For votes held while they were in office: Almost always voted for measures to prevent climate change Show ...
  40. [40]
    George Howarth - All Finance Act 2019 Contributions
    Department Debates - View all George Howarth's debates with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government ... Liverpool city region, starting with ...
  41. [41]
    George Howarth MP, Knowsley North and Sefton East (10292)
    Interesting Votes ; Commons, 7 Apr 2010, Digital Economy Bill – delay creation of clause 18 – website blocking ; 13 Oct 2009, Became Member, Panel of Chairs.Missing: contributions | Show results with:contributions<|separator|>
  42. [42]
    https://www.publicwhip.org.uk/division.php?date=2015-12-02&house=commons&number=139
  43. [43]
    Commons votes for Trident renewal by majority of 355 - The Guardian
    Jul 18, 2016 · Over half Labour MPs but not Jeremy Corbyn back motion after Theresa May says she would order nuclear strike.
  44. [44]
    Brexit: Boost for Corbyn as Labour voters in party's heartlands back ...
    Mar 2, 2019 · Margaret Beckett, a former deputy Labour leader, and George Howarth said the plan “is the most credible way forward” and “offers a sensible ...
  45. [45]
    https://www.publicwhip.org.uk/division.php?date=2019-04-01&house=commons&number=400
  46. [46]
    Labour MP says 'Guardian' story a libellous lie | The Independent
    Feb 28, 1996 · The Labour front bench MP George Howarth yesterday launched a High Court libel action over a parliamentary sketch he claimed painted him as ...
  47. [47]
    Reforming Libel Law: The Public Law Dimension | Cambridge Core
    Jan 17, 2008 · ... Howarth accepted damages from the Guardian ... , “The Impact of the High Court's Free Speech Cases on Defamation Law” (1995) 17 Sydney L.R. 43.
  48. [48]
    'Vindicated' MP wins damages from Guardian | The Independent
    The Labour MP George Howarth yesterday settled his libel action against the Guardian newspaper over an article which he said labelled him a ...
  49. [49]
    Knowsley: Fifteen arrests over clash outside asylum seeker hotel
    Feb 11, 2023 · On the night of the violence, Sir George told the BBC: "The people of Knowsley are not bigots and are welcoming to people escaping from some of ...Missing: response | Show results with:response
  50. [50]
    Violent and hostile protestors sentenced
    Mar 18, 2024 · A violent and hostile gang of people who gathered outside the Suites hotel in Knowsley in February 2023 have been sentenced.
  51. [51]
    Knowsley Incident - Hansard - UK Parliament
    Feb 20, 2023 · On the situation in Merseyside, we are working closely with Merseyside police; we are in regular contact with them and with local authorities.
  52. [52]
    Far-right protesters clash with police at Merseyside hotel housing ...
    Feb 10, 2023 · Knowsley's Labour MP Sir George Howarth said the demonstration was triggered by an “alleged incident posted on social media” and criticised ...
  53. [53]
    Eighth man jailed following disorder at Knowsley Suites Hotel
    Jul 11, 2024 · An eighth man has been jailed following an initially peaceful protest which turned violent at a hotel in Knowsley in February last year.
  54. [54]
    Riot-hit hotel in Knowsley among first to see asylum seekers moved ...
    Oct 24, 2023 · A HOTEL in Knowsley that saw violent disorder break out earlier this year is to be one of the first to see asylum seekers moved out under ...
  55. [55]
    Labour MP slammed after calling for 'deeply troubling' crackdown on...
    Feb 21, 2023 · Sir George Howarth called for a clampdown on far-right groups after violence broke out outside a hotel housing asylum seekers in Knowsley.
  56. [56]
    Asylum Seekers at the Suites Hotel - the facts - Knowsley News
    Mar 17, 2023 · On Friday 10 February 2023, a protest against the housing of asylum seekers at the Suites Hotel in Kirkby descended into acts of violence, criminal damage, and ...
  57. [57]
    Knowsley: Asylum seekers attacked outside Merseyside hotel where ...
    Mar 16, 2023 · Labour MP for Knowsley, Sir George Howarth, told parliament the situation has "deteriorated" since the protest, describing how refugees fleeing ...Missing: Criticism | Show results with:Criticism
  58. [58]
    Labour MP reveals extent of chaos under 'disastrous' Jeremy ...
    Dec 10, 2023 · Sir George Howarth said Keir Starmer has 'drawn a line under' the 'shameful' politics of Jeremy Corbyn. Don't Miss.Missing: rebel | Show results with:rebel<|control11|><|separator|>
  59. [59]
    [PDF] Investigation into antisemitism in the Labour Party
    Oct 29, 2020 · The issue of antisemitism within the Labour Party has been the subject of much scrutiny, most formally with three investigations in 2016, ...
  60. [60]
    Investigation into antisemitism in the Labour Party finds unlawful ...
    Oct 29, 2020 · The investigation has identified serious failings in the Labour Party leadership in addressing antisemitism and an inadequate process for handling antisemitism ...
  61. [61]
    Labour MPs hostile to Corbyn named in leaked party document
    Mar 23, 2016 · London mayoral candidate Sadiq Khan and chief whip Rosie Winterton labelled hostile on list that has angered Labour MPs.
  62. [62]
    Labour MPs and peers demand Corbyn take action against Williamson
    Jun 27, 2019 · Labour MP Keith Vaz and local party representative Huda Elmi voted for Williamson to be readmitted, whereas George Howarth MP voted against.Missing: criticism | Show results with:criticism
  63. [63]
    https://www.statista.com/statistics/1084488/uk-general-election-results/
  64. [64]
    General Election 2019: full results and analysis
    Jan 28, 2020 · The 2019 General Election resulted in a Conservative victory. The party won 365 seats, 48 more than in 2017, and 43.6% of the vote, up from 42.3% in 2017.
  65. [65]
    Oh Jeremy Corbyn! Why did Labour Party membership soar after the ...
    Dec 27, 2018 · This article investigates the remarkable surge in individual membership of the Labour Party after the general election of May 2015, ...
  66. [66]
    Labour membership declines by 200,000 since Corbyn era
    Aug 22, 2025 · Labour has lost 200000 members since the end of the Corbyn era, according to the party's own figures.
  67. [67]
    Labour membership falls by 200,000 in five years - BBC
    Aug 21, 2025 · Labour remains the UK's largest political party with 333235 members, according to new figures.
  68. [68]
    The Register of Members' Financial Interests (7 August 2023
    Aug 7, 2023 · Howarth, Sir George (Knowsley) ... I employ my wife, Julie Howarth, as Office Manager. Previous · Contents · Next. Prepared 10th ...
  69. [69]
    George Howarth Financial Disclosures - Parallel Parliament
    As a recipient of a ProShare Award for Services to Employee Share Ownership, I was involved in a donation from ShareGift to Juvenile Diabetes Research ...Missing: hobbies | Show results with:hobbies
  70. [70]
    Daughter of Knowsley MP's George Howarth dies suddenly aged 24
    May 8, 2013 · Sián Howarth, who attended St Edward's College, in West Derby, as a schoolgirl, worked as a teacher after graduating from Edge Hill university.
  71. [71]
    Diabetics with rare eating disorder to get specialist NHS help
    Feb 27, 2019 · The Labour MP George Howarth has been campaigning to raise awareness of diabulimia since his daughter Sian died from it aged 24 in 2011. Dr ...
  72. [72]
    Birthday Honours 2019: Olivia Colman and Bear Grylls on list - BBC
    Jun 8, 2019 · Knighthoods for parliamentary and political service go to George Howarth, Labour MP for Knowsley; Lib Dem MP for North Norfolk Norman Lamb, and ...