‘The North is in charge’ as Commons speaker get university honour

Sir Lindsay, from Chorley, received a Doctor of Laws (Hon LLD) at the University of Greater Manchester, formerly Bolton, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to Law and the Community.

Sir Lindsay, who was elected as the 158th Speaker in 2019, following the resignation of John Bercow, said: “I am truly honoured to accept the honorary doctorate from the University of Greater Manchester.”

He added: “As someone who was born and bred down the road in Chorley, Lancashire, and the first Speaker from Lancashire, I have got to tell you, dreams can be made and dreams can turn into reality.

Sir Lindsay Hoyle collecting his honorary doctorate (Image: Adrian Greenhalgh) “It took us a long time to get someone from Lancashire but I have got to tell you this, we’re not giving up too easy just yet.

“My accent tells you everything and it’s a good reminder for the South that the North is in charge!”

He was presented with the honour by the university’s Pro Chancellor Rasha Said.

Sir Lindsay Hoyle addressing the audience (Image: Adrian Greenhalgh) The ceremony took place before graduates from the University’s Greater Manchester Business School and the Greater Manchester School of Law.

Sir Lindsay’s life has always revolved around politics.

As a baby in 1957, he attended his first Labour Party conference with his father, Doug, the late Lord Hoyle, who was then an aspiring MP.

He was the youngest ever councillor to serve Chorley when elected in 1980 at the age of 22.

House of Commons speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle (Image: Adrian Greenhalgh) He went on to become deputy leader of Chorley Council, and then Mayor of Chorley from 1997-1998.

In 1997 Sir Lindsay stood for and won the Chorley seat, the first Labour MP to represent the constituency for 18 years.

A lifelong fan of Bolton Wanderers, Sir Lindsay added the experience had been “long-suffering, with some highlights along the way”.

“We have had great days, we’ve had many bad days, but the great days are going to return again.”

The Speaker also chairs the House of Commons Commission, which employs all the staff, such as doorkeepers, catering, security, librarians, and everyone who works in the Speaker’s Office.

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The Speaker also takes a leading role when distinguished foreign visitors are invited to address both Houses of Parliament and represents the House at great ceremonies of state.

Sir Lindsay added: “I am so pleased to be associated with Bolton, not as a fan, but with the University.

“It means so much and it is an absolute privilege to be here with you today.

“May I also take the opportunity to congratulate the graduates on your success, on your day. Your degrees are your future.”

Source – INDIA TV