Roy Hattersley, the former Labour deputy leader, politician, journalist, and author, has died at the age of 93. He was a central figure in the Labour Party for decades, known for his fierce defence of democratic socialism and his role in internal party battles.
Early Life and Political Rise
Born in Sheffield in 1932, Hattersley was the only child of Enid Hattersley, a prominent local Labour councillor and later lord mayor of Sheffield. He attended Sheffield City Grammar School and studied economics at Hull University after switching from English. He served as president of the National Association of Labour Students in 1954 and became the youngest Sheffield City councillor at 23.
Parliamentary Career
First elected as MP for Birmingham Sparkbrook in 1964, Hattersley quickly rose through the ranks. He was the youngest minister in Harold Wilson's government and served as secretary of state for prices and consumer protection under Jim Callaghan. He was a key figure in the Labour Solidarity group, which fought Militant activists in the early 1980s.
Deputy Leadership
After Labour's 1983 election defeat, Hattersley became deputy leader under Neil Kinnock, a role he held until 1992. He was known for his intellectual approach and his belief in equality, which he outlined in his book Labour's Choices. Despite his loyalty, he often clashed with Kinnock's style and later with Tony Blair's modernisation agenda.
Later Years and Writing
After leaving the Commons in 1997, Hattersley was made a life peer and retired from the Lords in 2017. He wrote over 20 books, including memoirs, novels, and biographies, and was a prolific journalist. He remained politically active, criticising Jeremy Corbyn's leadership and the party's handling of antisemitism and Brexit.
Personal Life
Hattersley married Molly Loughran in 1956; they divorced in 2013. He later married his literary agent, Maggie Pearlstine, who survives him. He was a lifelong supporter of Sheffield Wednesday football club and comprehensive education.
Roy Sydney George Hattersley, Lord Hattersley, born 28 December 1932; died 13 June 2026.
