Betty Boothroyd, first woman to become Commons Speaker in UK parliament, has died aged 93

[Social Media]

The first female Speaker of the Houses of Commons Betty Boothroyd has died aged 93.

Before becoming speaker she served as Labour MP for West Bromwich West from 1973 to 2000.

She went on to serve as a baroness in the House of Lords from 2001 until her death.

The current Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle described her as "an inspirational woman" who was known for her "no-nonsense style".

"To be the first woman Speaker was truly ground-breaking and Betty certainly broke that glass ceiling with panache.

"Betty was one of a kind. A sharp, witty and formidable woman - and I will miss her," he said.

 

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[Chomper Higgot]

A force of nature.

 

RIP Betty.

[VillageIdiot]

Bet she got a lot of "Betty Boop" jokes back in the day.

[Bluespunk]

RIP

 

A rare politician, one that could be trusted, respected and admired for her adherence to principles rather than petty bickering point scoring.