Baroness Ann Taylor

In an uncertain and changing world, and where solutions to some of the world’s most intractable challenges are increasingly urgent, Baroness Taylor discussed the power of decision makers to facilitate these solutions.

Drawing on her own background and experiences of higher education and politics, and her insights as Chair of the University Council, Baroness Taylor explored the important place of higher education in empowering people to make a real difference and create positive impact in the world.

About the speaker

Baroness Taylor has a long association with Bradford, having graduated with a BSc in Politics and History from the University in 1969. She also received an Honorary Doctorate of the University in 1997 for her public life and political achievements.

She is one of The Labour Party’s most experienced politicians, beginning her political career as MP for Bolton West in 1974, serving more recently as MP for Dewsbury.

She has held many senior positions both in government and opposition, including Shadow Secretary of State for Education and Shadow Leader of the House of Commons. She became Leader of the House of Commons in 1997 before being appointed Government Chief Whip.

She was Chair of the Intelligence and Security Committee from 2001-2005 and became a Life Peer in 2005. She has since served as a Government Minister in the House of Lords, as Minister for Defence Equipment and Support and Minister for International Defence and Security. She has also served as a Representative on the Council of Europe and the Western European Union.

Outside politics she is a non-executive Director of Thales SA and Board Member of the National Mining Museum.