Ben Smith (Labour politician) facts for kids
Sir Benjamin Smith (born January 29, 1879 – died May 5, 1964) was an important Labour Party politician from England. He started his career driving one of London's first taxis. Later, he became a strong leader for workers' unions. He also served as a Member of Parliament (MP) for many years. He even became a government minister during a very important time.
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Who Was Sir Benjamin Smith?
Benjamin Smith was born in 1879. He grew up to become a very active person in the world of work and politics. His journey began in a very hands-on way.
From Taxi Driver to Union Leader
Benjamin Smith was one of the first people to drive a taxi in London. This job showed him the challenges faced by workers. Because of this, he became the first organiser for the London Cab Drivers' Union. This union helped taxi drivers work together for better conditions.
Later, he became a national organiser for the Transport and General Workers' Union. This was a much bigger union. It looked after the rights of many different types of transport workers. He worked for this union from 1922 until 1923. That's when he was elected to Parliament.
A Life in Politics
Sir Benjamin Smith spent many years serving his country as a politician. He worked hard to represent the people who elected him.
Serving as an MP
Benjamin Smith became a Member of Parliament (MP) in 1923. An MP is a person elected to represent a specific area in the UK Parliament. He represented the area of Rotherhithe. He was an MP from 1923 to 1931. After a short break, he was elected again in 1935. He continued to serve as an MP until 1946.
Minister of Food
During World War II, and right after it, food was very important. Sir Benjamin Smith became the Minister of Food in 1945. This was part of the government led by Prime Minister Clement Attlee. His job was to make sure everyone in the country had enough food. This was a big responsibility, especially when food was rationed. He held this important role until May 1946. After that, he became the chairman of the West Midlands Coal Board. This board managed coal mining in that region.
What is a Privy Councillor?
In 1943, Benjamin Smith was given a special honour. He was sworn in as a member of His Majesty's Most Honourable Privy Council. This group advises the King or Queen. Being a Privy Councillor gave him the special title "The Right Honourable" for the rest of his life. It shows he was a trusted advisor to the monarch and the government.
