Humanists UK is saddened to learn of the death of its patron, Colin Pickthall, the former Member of Parliament for West Lancashire and a dedicated humanist, aged 81.
Born in 1944, Colin studied English literature and history at the University of Wales before completing an MA at Lancaster with the thesis The Influence of Socialism on 20th Century British Poetry. He was a lecturer, as well as member of the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament before his election to the UK Parliament in 1992, where he served his constituents until his retirement in 2005.
Throughout his parliamentary career, his humanist values were evident in his tireless campaigning for animal welfare and environmental protection. A staunch opponent of hunting and hare coursing, he advocated for a society where kindness and compassion are extended to all sentient beings. So effective was his campaigning that pro-hunt supporters left a dead fox on his doorstep in 2005.
He was an active member of the All-Party Parliamentary Humanist Group (APPHG) and a consistent voice for secularism in education. In 2001, Colin was one of the key signatories to a Humanists UK letter in the Independent urging Tony Blair’s government to reconsider plans to expand faith schools. He remained committed to the principle that education should be inclusive and free from religious discrimination.
Colin’s commitment to a tolerant world where rational thinking prevails remained a cornerstone of his life’s work. His contributions to the humanist movement, particularly during his time in Parliament, helped lay the groundwork for many of the social changes we continue to champion today.
Commenting on Colin’s death, Humanists UK Chief Executive Andrew Copson said:
‘Colin Pickthall was a principled and thoughtful representative who brought his humanist convictions to the heart of our democracy. His advocacy for a secular education system and his dedication to animal welfare reflected a life lived with purpose and reason. Our thoughts are with his loved ones.’
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For further comment or information, media should contact Humanists UK Director of Public Affairs and Policy Richy Thompson at press@humanists.uk or phone 020 7324 3072 or 07534 248 596.
Humanists UK is the national charity working on behalf of non-religious people. Powered by over 150,000 members and supporters, we advance free thinking and promote humanism to create a tolerant society where rational thinking and kindness prevail. We provide ceremonies, pastoral care, education, and support services benefitting over a million people every year and our campaigns advance humanist thinking on ethical issues, human rights, and equal treatment for all.