Tributes to veteran former Knowsley MP and minister Sir George Howarth

Sir George served in Sir Tony Blair’s government, first in the Home Office between 1997 and 1999, and then in the Northern Ireland Office until 2001.

He was knighted in the 2019 Birthday Honours for parliamentary and political service.

Born in Prescot, Sir George was educated at Huyton Secondary School before working as a fitter, engineer and further education lecturer.

Before entering Parliament, Sir George began his political career in local government in 1971. He later served on Knowsley Borough Council, becoming its deputy leader before he was elected as an MP.

Knowsley Council leader Graham Morgan said Sir George had been an “outstanding advocate for Knowsley throughout his life”.

He said he had given more than five decades of service to people in the borough, championed causes close to his constituents and supported major projects including Shakespeare North Playhouse.

“Having served as a councillor, and even as deputy leader of Knowsley Council before he entered parliament, he was someone who really understood the borough and passionately wanted the very best for the area and local people,” he said.

“He leaves a lasting legacy in the borough he was so proud to have grown up in, and to represent.”