Former Labour MP and defense minister Sir Patrick Duffy passed away at the age of 105 after a brief illness. He was known as the longest-serving former MP in the UK. A close family friend, Kevin Meagher, who co-authored Sir Patrick’s second book when he was 103, described him as a living historical archive, able to vividly recount encounters with notable figures like Clement Attlee.
Sir Duffy, who was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II and received a papal knighthood from Pope John Paul II, survived a plane crash during World War II while serving in the Fleet Air Arm. Despite facing near-death experiences, he displayed remarkable resilience and courage.
Having entered Parliament in 1950, Sir Patrick won the Colne Valley by-election in 1963 and later represented Sheffield Attercliffe until his retirement in 1992. He served as a parliamentary under-secretary for the Royal Navy during James Callaghan’s Labour government in the late 1970s.
Known for his outspoken nature, Sir Patrick criticized former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher for the death of Bobby Sands in 1981, but later developed a cordial relationship with her. Described as an extraordinary individual with a wealth of accomplishments, Sir Patrick’s legacy will be cherished by his family, friends, and colleagues for his wit, kindness, and remarkable memory of events from decades ago.
His passing marks the end of a life well-lived, marked by significant achievements, respect from peers, and the affection of loved ones. Sir Patrick Duffy will be deeply missed.