Thomas Owen

Thomas Owen
Sir Thomas Owen is a British Politician, serving as the MP for Ashton-under-Lyne since 1983, Leader of the Labour Party since 2001 and the Father of the House since 2004. He served as the Minister of State for Housing under Tony Blair from 1997 until 1999, when he resigned to explore a leadership bid. He defeated Sir David Davidson in the 2001 Labour Party Leadership Election, and Davidson then became his deputy. During the discussions for the Good Friday Agreement, Owen played a significant role, thanks to his Irish roots. His efforts which many now credit as helping him to win his leadership bid.

Early Life
Thomas grew up in Hazelhurst, part of Ashton-under-Lyne, in Tameside. He was raised by his parents, Caroline & Craig, and attended Ashton Sixth Form College, where he got Bs in History & Politics, alongside a Distinction in BTEC Law. He then joined the Labour Party at age 18 in 1973, and in 1980 was elected as a Labour Party Councillor. In 1983, he won the constituency of Ashton-under-Lyne, replacing Robert Sheldon, with a majority of almost 14,000. He has won re-election every election since with around 55-65% of the vote.

Becoming an MP
Thomas won election in 1983, campaigning on a strongly anti-Thatcher platform. He defeated the Conservatives by a large majority and has become a popular and effective campaigner for the Labour party.

Becoming a Knight
Thomas was made a knight in 2002 after serving as Father of the house. He says this is the most rewarding experience of his political career