Leif Mills facts for kids

Leif Anthony Mills (born March 25, 1936 – died December 17, 2020) was an important British leader in trade unions. Trade unions are groups that work to protect the rights and improve the working conditions of employees. Mills dedicated much of his life to helping people in the banking and finance industries.

Early Life and Education

Leif Mills went to Kingston Grammar School when he was younger. After that, he studied at Balliol College, Oxford, which is a famous university. He also completed his national service in the Royal Military Police. National service was a time when young people had to serve in the armed forces for a period.

A Career Helping Workers

Mills joined the National Union of Bank Employees in 1962. This union later changed its name to the Banking Insurance and Finance Union (BIFU). He quickly moved up in the union. He became the Assistant General Secretary in 1962 and then the Deputy General Secretary in 1968. By 1972, he was the General Secretary, which is the main leader of the union. He held this important role until 1996.

Working with the Trades Union Congress

Leif Mills was also very involved with the Trades Union Congress (TUC). The TUC is a large organization that represents many different trade unions across the UK. Even though there was a disagreement early on, Mills later held several important positions within the TUC. He even became the President of the TUC in 1994 and 1995. This was a big achievement, showing his influence in the world of workers' rights.

Other Public Roles

Beyond his work with unions, Mills also served on the Monopolies and Mergers Commission. This group looked into whether companies were becoming too powerful. He also worked with the Covent Garden Market Authority, which manages a famous market in London.

Author and Recognition

Leif Mills also wrote books. In 1999, he published a book about Frank Wild, who was an explorer. Later, in 2008, his book Men of Ice was released. For his hard work and contributions, he was given an award called the Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 1995. This is a special honor given by the British monarch.

Later Life

Leif Mills passed away on December 17, 2020, at the age of 84. He was an active member and supporter of the Weybridge Rowing Club. Before that, he was involved with the Oxford University Boat Club. He also belonged to the Oxford and Cambridge Club.