Lord Barnett becomes Freeman of the Borough

Former Heywood and Royton MP the Right Honourable Lord Joel Barnett awarded Freedom of the Borough of Rochdale

Former Heywood and Royton MP the Right Honourable Lord Joel Barnett has been awarded Freedom of the Borough of Rochdale - the highest honour the council can bestow on an individual or group. Rochdale Town Hall was host to over 100 guests for the ceremony on Wednesday night.

On receiving the honour, Lord Barnett said “Thank you to everyone who spoke tonight, your words have been very generous. It is marvellous to see all these people here who have helped me throughout my career. I am most grateful to receive the Freedom of the Borough. It’s a great honour and one that is very much appreciated.”

Born on 14 October 1923, Joel Barnett worked as an accountant before being elected onto Prestwich Borough Council. He was elected Member of Parliament for Heywood and Royton in 1964 and served as Chief Secretary to the Treasury from 1974 to 1979, gaining a seat in the cabinet from 1977 onwards in the Callaghan Government. Lord Barnett also acted as shadow spokesperson for business, innovation and skills from 1970 to 1974. In 1983, he was made a life peer as Baron Barnett, of Heywood and Royton.

http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/86605/lord-barnett-to-be-awarded-freedom-of-the-borough