As Home Secretary at the time of the 9/11 attacks, David Blunkett served through some of the most turbulent events of recent years. The turbulence was not confined to his political life, either. Few politicians have experienced the ups and downs that David has and he recounted them in his book The Blunkett Tapes - My Life in the Bear Pit.

David entered parliament as the Labour Member for Sheffield Brightside, having served on Sheffield City Council. He became Opposition Spokesman on the Environment, then Shadow Secretary of State for Health, Education and Employment. As Labour Party Chair and one of the key players in the development of New Labour, David distanced himself from the 'loony left' image of Sheffield City Council, described by a local Tory as 'The People's Republic of South Yorkshire'.

When Labour came to power under Tony Blair, David was appointed Secretary of State for Education and Employment. He developed the Learning and Skills Councils, created Job Centre Plus and launched the New Deal which created over 100,000 jobs for young people.

David was then promoted to Home Secretary and, following the terrorist attacks, pushed through a number of reforms to adapt the Home Office to meet new challenges. His revision of the Terrorism Act outlawed terrorist groups and gave the police enhanced powers.


"Authoritative, insightful, entertaining and delightful company"

DAS/Omnicom

As Home Secretary at the time of the 9/11 attacks, David Blunkett served through some of the most turbulent events of recent years. He is a charismatic and gifted speaker on politics, security and management.

TOPICS

The Political Landscape, Overcoming Adversity, Social Responsibility, Diversity


SPEECH TITLES

Leadership
Change management
Government
Corporate Social Responsibility
The challenges ahead