David Blunkett

The Right Honourable David Blunkett (born June 6, 1947) is a British Labour Party politician and Member of Parliament for Sheffield Brightside. He was Education Secretary from 1997 to 2001, and Home Secretary from 2001 to 2004. Following the 2005 General Election he was appointed to the position of Secretary of State for Work and Pensions.

Early life

Born in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, he grew up in poverty after his father was killed following an industrial accident. Blind since birth, and educated at schools for the blind in Sheffield and Shrewsbury, his chances in life seemed limited. Indeed, he was apparently told at school that one of his few options in life was to become a lathe operator. Nevertheless, he won a place at the University of Sheffield, and went on to enter local politics immediately on graduation.

Related Topics:
Sheffield - South Yorkshire - Poverty - Father - Blind - Shrewsbury - Lathe - University of Sheffield - Politics

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