In the House of Lords, Lord Lipsey was known for his dedication to social justice and his commitment to improving the lives of others
The Labour peer, Lord David Lipsey, has been found dead following an incident while swimming in the River Wye in Wales, according to police reports. Officers were called to the village of Glasbury on Monday after concerns were raised about the safety of a man who had been last seen swimming in the river. Dyfed Powys Police confirmed on Thursday that the body of the 77-year-old was recovered from the water on Tuesday following a multi-agency search effort.
Lord Lipsey, who had a distinguished career as a journalist and served as a Downing Street adviser under former Prime Minister Jim Callaghan, was a prominent figure in British political and media circles. A police spokesperson expressed condolences to his family, stating, “His next of kin have been informed and our thoughts are with them at this difficult time. They have asked for their privacy to be respected.” The Lord Speaker, Lord McFall of Alcluith, also extended the upper chamber’s condolences to Lord Lipsey’s family and friends.
“David was loved and respected by so many. Whether it was his early years as a researcher and adviser, or his quarter of a century in the House of Lords, he worked tirelessly for what he believed in. He will be sorely missed by all who were fortunate to know him, in parliament and beyond.”
Keir Starmer
David Lipsey, originally from Dorset, lived in Powys and was a patron of the Glasbury arts festival. His career in journalism saw him work for several esteemed publications, including the Guardian, the Sunday Times, New Society, and the Economist. He co-founded the short-lived Sunday Correspondent in 1988. In 1999, he was awarded a life peerage by Tony Blair, further cementing his place in British public life.
In addition to his journalistic and political contributions, Lord Lipsey was a notable figure in the world of greyhound racing. He chaired the British Greyhound Racing Board, now known as the Greyhound Board of Great Britain, from 2004 to 2009. During his tenure, he worked to ensure that greyhounds were rehomed after their racing careers ended, demonstrating his commitment to animal welfare.
Tributes have been pouring in from across the political spectrum. Prime Minister Keir Starmer said, “David was loved and respected by so many. Whether it was his early years as a researcher and adviser, or his quarter of a century in the House of Lords, he worked tirelessly for what he believed in. He will be sorely missed by all who were fortunate to know him, in parliament and beyond. My thoughts are with his wife, Margaret, and their family and friends.”
Lord Lipsey’s career as a journalist began in the 1960s, where he quickly made a name for himself with his insightful and incisive writing. His work in journalism led him to a role as a special adviser to the Labour minister and diarist Anthony Crosland, and later to a position on the staff at 10 Downing Street under Prime Minister Jim Callaghan. His contributions to journalism and public service earned him recognition and respect from his peers and the public alike.
In the House of Lords, Lord Lipsey was known for his dedication to social justice and his commitment to improving the lives of others. His work in the upper chamber was marked by his tireless advocacy for causes he believed in, and his contributions were felt across a range of policy areas.
The village of Glasbury, where Lord Lipsey was last seen, is a picturesque community known for its arts festival, which he actively supported. The local community has been deeply affected by the news of his death, with many expressing their condolences and sharing memories of his contributions to the area.
As the investigation into the circumstances of Lord Lipsey’s death continues, the focus remains on supporting his family and friends during this difficult time. The police have requested that the public respect the privacy of Lord Lipsey’s family, allowing them to grieve in peace.
Lord Lipsey’s legacy will be remembered not only through his contributions to journalism and public service but also through the many lives he touched through his work and advocacy. His passing marks the end of an era for those who knew him and the beginning of a time of reflection on his remarkable life and achievements.
