Ted Williams (politician) facts for kids
Sir Edward John Williams (born July 1, 1890 – died May 16, 1963) was an important British politician. He was a member of the Labour Party. He also served as a diplomat, representing the United Kingdom in Australia. He was given special honors like being a Knight Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George (KCMG) and a member of the Privy Council (PC), which meant he advised the King or Queen.
Early Life and Education
Edward Williams was born in 1890 in a place called Victoria, in Ebbw Vale, Wales. His parents were Emanuel and Ada Williams. He went to school in Victoria and Hopkinstown. When he was only 12 years old, he started working at a coal mine called Waunllwyd colliery in Ebbw Vale.
Even though he worked hard, Edward was very keen to learn more. He managed to become a secretary for a mining company. In 1913, he went to the Labour College in London. This college helped working people get a good education.
Working in the Mines
After three years at the college, Edward Williams became a lecturer for them. However, the Great War (World War I) started, which caused problems for the college. Edward found himself without a job.
In 1917, he had to go back to working in the mines. He became a "checkweigher," which was a person who made sure miners were paid fairly for the coal they dug. In 1919, he became a "miners' agent" for the Garw district of the South Wales Miners' Federation. This meant he represented the miners and helped them with their rights.
A Career in Politics
Edward Williams decided to enter politics to help working people. He was elected as a MP for the area called Ogmore. This happened in a special election in May 1931. An MP is a person elected to represent their local area in the UK Parliament, which makes laws for the country.
He continued to represent Ogmore in Parliament until 1946. During this time, he worked to improve the lives of people, especially those in mining communities.
Diplomat in Australia
After his time as an MP, Edward Williams took on a new role. From 1946 to 1952, he served as the High Commissioner to Australia. A High Commissioner is like an ambassador, representing their country in another Commonwealth country. In this role, he helped strengthen the relationship between the United Kingdom and Australia.
