MP celebrates 40 years

MICHAEL Meacher is pictured (centre), with guests (from left) Oldham East and Saddleworth MP Phil Woolas, Ashton MP David Heyes, Mr Meacher’s agent and former Oldham councillor Peter Dean, and the Mayor of Oldham, Councillor David Jones.

FORMER Labour Government minister Michael Meacher has represented Oldham voters for 40 years and a dinner to celebrate the milestone was held in his honour.

The long-serving 70-year-old Oldham West and Royton MP was surrounded by friends and supporters at the Taj Palace Restaurant in King Street, Oldham.

Mr Meacher, who held his seat at the May General Election with a majority of more than 9,000, was first elected in 1970 and served as Transport Minister from 1997 to 2001 and then Environment Minister to 2003.