Maurice Webb (politician) facts for kids

Maurice Webb (born September 26, 1904 – died June 10, 1956) was a British politician who belonged to the Labour Party. He played an important role in government during a time of big changes in the UK.

Early Life and Career

Maurice Webb joined the Labour Party when he was just a teenager in 1922. He became a well-known journalist, writing for newspapers like the Daily Herald. From 1929 to 1935, he worked for the Labour Party, helping them communicate their ideas to the public. He also spoke on the radio and was part of the leadership team for the National Union of Journalists, which is a group for journalists.

Becoming a Member of Parliament

In 1945, Maurice Webb was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP). He represented the area of Bradford Central in the UK Parliament. This was after the Second World War, a time when many people wanted big changes in Britain.

Leading the Labour Party

From 1946 to 1950, Webb was the Chairman of the Parliamentary Labour Party. This meant he was a key leader for all the Labour MPs in Parliament. He helped guide the party's work and decisions.

Minister of Food

In 1950, Maurice Webb was given a very important job: Minister of Food. This was a big responsibility because Britain was still dealing with rationing. Rationing meant that people could only buy a limited amount of food, like sugar or meat, to make sure everyone got some. As Minister, Webb helped manage the country's food supply during this difficult time. He also became a Privy Councillor, which is a special title given to important people who advise the King or Queen.

A Cricketer's Friend

Maurice Webb was also known for a kind act in 1949. He helped a young cricket player named Brian Close. Close was 18 and was supposed to join the National Service, which was a period of military training. Webb stepped in to delay this so Brian Close could finish playing the cricket season for Yorkshire County Cricket Club.

Later Life and Death

Maurice Webb's area, Bradford Central, was changed for the 1955 election. He then tried to become an MP for Bradford North. However, he lost by a small number of votes to the Conservative candidate. Maurice Webb passed away on June 10, 1956, when he was 51 years old.