Edith Summerskill

Baroness Summerskill

Edith Clara Summerskill, Baroness Summerskill (19 April 1901 – 4 February 1980) was a British physician, politician, and feminist. She was a prominent member of the Labour Party and served in various ministerial roles during her political career.

Early Life and Education

Edith Summerskill was born in London and educated at King's College London, where she studied medicine. She qualified as a physician and worked in general practice before entering politics.

Political Career

Summerskill was elected as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Fulham West in a by-election in 1938. She held this seat until it was abolished in 1945, after which she became the MP for Warrington, a position she held until 1961.

Ministerial Roles

In 1945, Summerskill was appointed as the Minister of National Insurance in the government of Clement Attlee. She played a significant role in the establishment of the National Health Service and the expansion of the welfare state. In 1950, she became the first Minister of Social Security, a position she held until 1951.

Feminism and Advocacy

Summerskill was a staunch advocate for women's rights and was involved in various campaigns to improve the status of women in society. She was a founding member of the Married Women's Association and worked tirelessly to address issues such as equal pay and access to healthcare for women.

Later Life and Legacy

After retiring from the House of Commons, Summerskill was elevated to the House of Lords as Baroness Summerskill in 1961. She continued to be active in public life and was a vocal advocate for social justice and equality until her death in 1980.

Personal Life

Summerskill was married to Jeffrey Samuel, and they had two children, including Shirley Summerskill, who also became a Labour MP.

See Also

• Labour Party (UK)
• National Health Service (England)
• House of Lords
• Feminism in the United Kingdom