Last week I had the honour of organising a dinner to celebrate my predecessor Dr Alan Whitehead. Alan first came into my life when I was 18, and it all started with a birthday card. I received the card from my local MP, which not only wished me a happy birthday, but reminded me that I was old enough to vote.
It was a wonderful evening where politicians past and present, along with many key stakeholders from the city, came together to thank Alan for his whopping 27 years of service as an MP and to celebrate his nearly 40 years of public service in Southampton.
Alan’s journey began in 1980 when he became a city councillor, later becoming leader of the council when Labour took control in 1984. He held this position until 1992. Elected to Parliament in 1997, Alan played a crucial role in steering the Climate Change Bill through the Commons and served on several committees, including the Standards and Privileges Select Committee. He was also the chairman of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Poland. A true pioneer, Alan was an early advocate for renewable energy, even becoming the first MP to install a wind turbine on his constituency home in Highfield.
Alan’s work in the energy sector was recognised throughout the evening, with many congratulating him for his promotion of green initiatives. He served as Shadow Minister for Energy Security from 2015 to 2024 and held various government roles, including Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government, and Regions from 2001 to 2002.
However, it was here in Southampton Test where Alan’s impact was most deeply felt. His grassroots campaigning and the constant support he gave to his constituents made him a much liked, and respected MP.
A dedicated Saints fan, Alan expressed his gratitude to everyone who came out to support him, saying: “I’m touched by everyone’s kind words. I am proud to have been able to represent the people of Southampton in Parliament for all this time, and I’m profoundly grateful for all the support they have given me to do the job.”
In January 2023, Alan announced he would stand down, saying: “I have been your MP for some 23 years now, and between us we have managed to hold Southampton Test as a red beacon for Labour in seven elections over those years.”
Alan Whitehead is a legend! He has always championed Southampton, and his love for this great city and its people has always been truly inspiring. He has said that serving the people of the city was the honour of his life, and that happy honour is now mine, I’ve got big shoes to fill. I also want to personally say thank you to him for his guidance and unwavering support over the years.