Boothroyd, Betty

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Boothroyd, Betty (b. 1929). First woman Speaker of the House of Commons (1992–2000). Born in Yorkshire and educated at Dewsbury College of Commerce and Art, Betty Boothroyd was briefly a dancer with the Tiller girls before making a career in the Labour Party. She contested a number of seats from 1959 before election in 1973 for West Bromwich, transferring in 1974 to West Bromwich West. She served as deputy Speaker 1987–92 and was elected Speaker in 1992 with the support of 74 Conservative MPs. A remarkably successful Speaker, she was assisted by an imposing presence and a firm but conciliatory manner. Since 1994 she has been chancellor of the Open University.

J. A. Cannon

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