Harry Barnes
English politician, Member of Parliament
Harry Barnes, a dedicated English politician who served as the Labour Party Member of Parliament for North East Derbyshire for nearly two decades, passed away on February 16, 2026, at the age of 89. Born Harold Barnes, he was widely known as Harry throughout his distinguished career. His commitment to public service and his constituents left a lasting impact on the political landscape of the United Kingdom.
Born in Easington, County Durham, on July 22, 1936, Barnes came from a mining family, with his father working at the local pit. His early life experiences shaped his strong socialist convictions. He pursued higher education at Ruskin College in Oxford and later at the University of Hull, laying the groundwork for his future in politics and academia.
Before entering Parliament, Barnes held various roles, including a railway clerk in two separate periods. He then transitioned into education, serving as a lecturer in British government at North Notts College of Further Education and subsequently in political studies and industrial relations at Sheffield University. These experiences provided him with a deep understanding of societal structures and workers' rights.
Barnes was first elected to Parliament in the 1987 general election, representing North East Derbyshire. During his time in the House of Commons, he was a prominent figure on the left wing of the Labour Party and a member of the Socialist Campaign Group. He was known for his independent stance, often voting against the leadership of Tony Blair on key issues. Notably, he supported NATO intervention in Kosovo in 1999, a position that diverged from some of his Socialist Campaign Group colleagues.
After serving his constituency for 18 years, Harry Barnes stood down at the May 2005 general election. In his later years, he remained active in local politics, serving as the Political Education Officer for the Dronfield Branch of the Labour Party. He resided in Dronfield, Derbyshire, with his wife, Ann Stephenson, whom he married in 1963. He passed away from cancer, leaving behind a legacy of principled advocacy and unwavering dedication to the people he served.