Tributes were paid today (Monday 27 February) to Betty Boothroyd, The Right Honourable Baroness Boothroyd of Sandwell, who has died aged 93.
Baroness Boothroyd, an Honorary Freeman of Sandwell, served as MP for the West Bromwich and West Bromwich West constituencies from 1973 to 2000. Between 1992 and 2000, she became the first – and currently only – woman to be Speaker of the House of Commons.
Sandwell Council Leader Councillor Kerrie Carmichael said: “I am so very sad to hear that Baroness Boothroyd has passed away. She was an inspirational politician, a woman we could all look up to and an MP and Baroness we could proudly call our own.
“She truly led the way – becoming the first woman to hold the position of Speaker of the House of Commons. This was a historic achievement for which she was known around the world.
“Locally, we remember her service to the people of West Bromwich West as their MP, helping residents with so many different issues over many years, and her significant contribution to the borough of Sandwell. She really helped to raise the profile of West Bromwich and Sandwell.
“On behalf of everyone at Sandwell Council, I offer my heartfelt condolences to Baroness Boothroyd’s family, friends and colleagues.”
The Sandwell flag at the Council House in Oldbury has been lowered as a mark of respect following Baroness Boothroyd’s death.
Baroness Boothroyd became an Honorary Freeman of Sandwell in July 1992, shortly after being elected Speaker of the House of Commons.
She was first the MP for West Bromwich from 1973-74 and then for West Bromwich West from 1974-2000.
In 2001, she was created a life peer in the House of Lords.