Harold Best facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Harold Best
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Best as an MP
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| Member of Parliament for Leeds North West |
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| In office 1 May 1997 – 11 April 2005 |
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| Preceded by | Keith Hampson |
| Succeeded by | Greg Mulholland |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 18 December 1937 Leeds, England |
| Died | 24 August 2020 (aged 82) North Yorkshire, England |
| Political party | Labour |
| Spouse |
Glyn
(m. 1960) |
| Children | 4 |
| Education |
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| Occupation | |
Harold Best was a British politician who was a Member of Parliament (MP) for Leeds North West. He was part of the Labour Party. Before becoming an MP, he worked as an electrician and was involved in trade unions. He served in Parliament from 1997 until he retired in 2005. Harold Best was born on 18 December 1937 and passed away on 24 August 2020.
Early Life and Education
Harold Best grew up in Leeds, England, which is also where he was born on 18 December 1937. His parents were Fred and Marie Best. For his schooling, he attended Meanwood County School. He also studied at Leeds College of Technology. After his education, he worked as an electrical technician.
Political Career
Harold Best was chosen to represent the Labour Party in the area of Leeds North West. In the 1997 general election, he won the seat. This was a bit of a surprise win for the Labour Party in that area. He became the first Labour MP for Leeds North West since the area was created for elections.
When he first won, he had 3,844 more votes than the person who was MP before him, Keith Hampson. In the next election, the 2001 general election, he increased his lead to 5,236 votes.
At first, Harold Best supported the leader of his party, Tony Blair. However, he later spoke out against the Iraq War. In 2004, he helped open the new Wharfedale Hospital in Otley. He decided not to run for election again in the 2005 general election, choosing to retire from politics.
Personal Life
Harold Best passed away in North Yorkshire, England, on 24 August 2020. He was 82 years old. He had been married to his wife, Glyn, since 1960. They had four children together: two sons and two daughters.
