Michael Meacher
Michael Meacher: A Life Dedicated to Public Service
Full Name and Common Aliases
Michael John Meacher was a British politician who served as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Southwick and then for Blackburn.
Birth and Death Dates
Meacher was born on July 4, 1941, in London, England. He passed away on June 21, 2020, at the age of 78.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Michael Meacher was a British citizen and a politician by profession. Throughout his career, he served as a Member of Parliament (MP), Minister, and government advisor.
Early Life and Background
Meacher was born into a family with a strong tradition of public service. His father, John Edward Douglas Meacher, was a Labour Party MP from 1945 to 1973. Michael grew up in the East End of London and attended the University College School in Hampstead. He later studied at St Catharine's College, Cambridge.
Major Accomplishments
Meacher began his parliamentary career in 1970 as the MP for Southwark. In 1987, he was appointed Minister of State at the Department of Employment by Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. During this period, he played a crucial role in shaping labor market policies. Meacher later served as the Minister for the Environment from 1997 to 1998 and then as Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport, and the Regions until 2003.
Notable Works or Actions
Meacher was known for his commitment to environmental protection and social justice. He played a key role in shaping policies related to sustainable development, climate change, and energy efficiency. Some of his notable works include:
The introduction of the Climate Change Levy in 2001, which aimed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from industry.
The establishment of the UK's first-ever Environment Agency in 1996.
His advocacy for increased funding for public transportation and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.Impact and Legacy
Michael Meacher left a lasting impact on British politics. He was a champion of social justice and environmental protection, using his platform to raise awareness about critical issues such as climate change and sustainable development. Meacher's commitment to serving the public good earned him respect across party lines.Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Meacher's dedication to serving the community and his commitment to addressing pressing social and environmental issues make him a widely quoted and remembered figure in British politics. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of politicians, policymakers, and activists working towards creating a more sustainable and equitable world.
Meacher's contributions to public service have been recognized through various awards and honors, including:
The Queen's Award for Enterprise Promotion in 1997.
* The title of Honorary Fellow at the University College London (UCL) in recognition of his work on environmental issues.
Throughout his life, Michael Meacher demonstrated a steadfast commitment to public service, always putting the needs of others before his own. His tireless efforts have left a lasting impact on British politics and continue to inspire those working towards creating a better world for all.
Quotes by Michael Meacher
We have an overdraft with the earth something in excess of 130 per cent. We currently consume something like 30 per cent over and above what we are replacing and rather like an overdraft at a bank that can’t go on.
I don’t think we have learnt to keep within the limits. They are quite elastic but there is a point beyond which they will break and then you will get a complete and massive change in the climate in which the survival of human species might not be compatible.
Forward thinking companies that adapt positively to the sustainable business agenda will be at the forefront of resource productivity, reducing waste and of environmental reporting. They and their management teams make things happen ahead of their competitors.
I think that will only really change when the human races begins to suffer some of the extremely severe consequences of climate change which may be some decades ahead. They will then realise, as we have with the financial crisis, that we are up against the wall and hitting the buffers and we have got to change.
I don't think we have learnt to keep within the limits. They are quite elastic but there is a point beyond which they will break and then you will get a complete and massive change in the climate in which the survival of human species might not be compatible.
Forward thinking companies that adapt positively to the sustainable business agenda will be at the forefront of resource productivity, reducing waste and of environmental reporting. They and their management teams make things happen ahead of their competitors
Globally, emissions may have to be reduced, the scientists are telling us, by as much as 60% or 70%, with developed countries likely to have to make even bigger cuts if we're going to allow the developing world to have their share of growing industrial prosperity...The Kyoto Protocol is only the first rather modest step. Much, much deeper emission reductions will be needed in future. The political implications are mind-blowing.