David Willetts

Rt_Hon_David_Willetts_MP

David_Willetts_Constituency_Offices_-_geograph.org.uk_-_635891

David Willetts

David Willetts, full name David Linsay Willetts, is a British Conservative Party politician and life peer. He was born on March 9, 1956, in Birmingham, England. Willetts is known for his contributions to public policy, particularly in the areas of higher education and social mobility.

Early Life and Education

David Willetts was educated at King Edward's School, Birmingham and later attended Christ Church, Oxford, where he studied Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE). He graduated with a first-class degree.

Political Career

Willetts began his political career as a researcher for the Conservative Party. He served as a special adviser to Nigel Lawson, the then Chancellor of the Exchequer, and later to Margaret Thatcher.

Member of Parliament

David Willetts was elected as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Havant in the 1992 general election. He held this seat until he stood down in 2015. During his time in Parliament, he held various positions, including:

• Paymaster General (1996-1997)
• Shadow Secretary of State for Education and Skills (2005-2007)
• Minister of State for Universities and Science (2010-2014)

House of Lords

In 2015, David Willetts was appointed as a life peer, taking the title Baron Willetts of Havant. He continues to contribute to public policy debates, particularly in the areas of education and social mobility.

Contributions to Higher Education

As the Minister of State for Universities and Science, Willetts played a significant role in shaping higher education policy in the UK. He was instrumental in the introduction of higher tuition fees and the expansion of university places. He is also known for his advocacy of the "Eight Great Technologies" to drive innovation and economic growth.

Publications

David Willetts is an accomplished author and has written several books and articles on social policy and economics. Some of his notable works include:

• The Pinch: How the Baby Boomers Took Their Children's Future - And Why They Should Give It Back (2010)
• A University Education (2017)

Personal Life

David Willetts is married to Sarah Butterfield, a painter, and they have two children. He is also a visiting professor at King's College London and an honorary fellow at Nuffield College, Oxford.

Related Pages

• Conservative Party (UK)
• Havant
• House of Lords
• Minister of State for Universities and Science
• Nigel Lawson
• Margaret Thatcher