PICKLES, Rt Hon Eric

Member for Brentwood and Ongar (revised boundary) since 6 May 2010, for Brentwood and Ongar 1992-2010. Committees: Member, Environment, Transport and the Regions Select Committee 1997-98; Chair, All-Party Film Group. Political career: Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government since 2010; Shadow Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government 2007-09; Shadow Minister for Local Government 2005-07; Shadow Secretary of State for Local Government and the Regions 2002-03; Shadow Minister for Transport 2001-02; Conservative Frontbench Spokesperson on Social Security 1998-2001; Vice-Chair of the Conservative Party 1993-97; Deputy Leader, Conservative Group on the Association of Metropolitan Authorities 1989-91; Leader, Conservative Group 1987-91; Leader, Bradford Council 1988-90; Member, Yorkshire Area Regional Health Authority 1982-90; Chair, Education 1984-86; Chair, Social Services 1982-84; Member, Vice-Chair and Chair, National Young Conservatives 1976-80; Parliamentary Private Secretary to the Rt Hon Tim Sainsbury, Minister for Industry. Special political interests: Eastern Europe, housing, health, local government. Profession/Trade: Consultant in employment practice. Education: Keighley and Leeds Polytechnic. Hobbies: Films, opera, walking, golf, birdwatching. b. 20 April 1952, Keighley, West Yorkshire. Married.