Claire Ward

Labour MP Watford

Date of birth

9 May 1972

Political profile

Claire Ward is widely seen as one of the rising stars of New Labour.

She was first elected to the Commons in 1997 at the age of 24, when she ousted former Deputy Chief Whip Tristan Garel-Jones.

She has made a habit of youthful political achievement - even before her election. She had been Mayor of Elstree and Borehamwood and had been a TGWU activist since she was 15.

She served on the Commons culture, media and sport select committee throughout the 1997 Parliament and became parliamentary private secretary to John Denham in 2001.

She is loyal to New Labour, although she served as a director of Tribune and concentrates largely on issues inspired by the needs of her constituency.

With the Elstree studios in her seat, she takes a strong interest in the future of the British film industry.

She is also a leading member of the All Party Chocolate and Confectionery Industry Group.

Contact

[e-mail]

Constituency office 01923 213579