Sir Anthony Joseph Lloyd is a notable British politician of the 21st century. Before taking the role of Manchester Mayor, Lloyd undertook a diverse and fascinating journey encompassing decades of public service, political leadership, and community involvement. Do you know the key milestones of his life and his major achievements as mayor? Let’s delve deeper into his story. Next on manchesteryes.com.
Tony Lloyd and Politics from an Early Age
The future Manchester Mayor Tony Lloyd was born in 1950 in Stretford. He grew up in a large family with four siblings. Despite the challenges, his upbringing was marked by a sense of comfort and well-being.
When Lloyd was just 13 years old, his father passed away unexpectedly, leaving his mother to care for five children on her own. She assumed all responsibilities for the household and the upbringing of her children.
Politics entered Lloyd’s life through his mother. A staunch supporter of the Labour Party, she often spoke to her son about friends who had lost their lives during the Spanish Civil War. Lloyd viewed these stories as a battle between good and evil. His mother’s values and moral compass helped shape his early political awareness, instilling the belief that politics exists to fight for what is right.
Lloyd spent his childhood and youth in his hometown of Stretford, where he completed his education at the local boys’ grammar school. Later, he earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from the University of Nottingham. He then moved to Manchester, where he attended business school and briefly taught at Salford University.
During his student years, Lloyd developed a keen sense of social justice and a desire to make a difference. Inspired by the dynamic social and political landscape of the 1960s and 1970s, he became actively involved in community affairs, laying the foundation for his future career in politics.
Climbing the Career Ladder
In the late 1970s, Tony Lloyd took significant steps toward a political career by joining the Labour Party. In 1979, he successfully stood as a Labour candidate for Trafford Council, securing his first political office.
Lloyd’s dedication to public service and his ability to connect with diverse groups of people helped him quickly rise through the political ranks.
Lloyd’s parliamentary career began in 1983 when he was elected as the MP for Stretford. In Parliament, he championed issues such as social justice, healthcare, and education reform, earning a reputation as a reliable and principled public servant.
Police and Crime Commissioner for Manchester
In 2012, Lloyd stepped down as an MP to run for the newly created position of Police and Crime Commissioner for Greater Manchester. This decision was influenced by his parliamentary experience, where he often dealt with constituents’ concerns about crime and safety.
Lloyd was elected as Manchester’s first Police and Crime Commissioner with more than 100,000 votes, securing over 50% of the electorate. This overwhelming support led to him being described in the press as “the most influential person in Manchester.”
As Police and Crime Commissioner, Lloyd focused on:
- Reducing crime rates in the city;
- Strengthening partnerships with local organisations;
- Tackling anti-social behaviour;
- Supporting vulnerable populations;
- Providing assistance to victims of crime;
- Enhancing public safety;
- Responding to community emergencies;
- Combating terrorism;
- Addressing organised crime;
- Building trust and confidence in Manchester’s police force.
Mayor of Manchester
Lloyd’s political career reached its peak when he became Mayor of Manchester. Appointed on a temporary basis in 2015, Lloyd served as interim mayor for two years, during which he accomplished significant milestones for the city.
Lloyd brought a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of local issues to the role. As mayor, he worked to address urban development, public safety, and economic growth. His leadership style was marked by close collaboration with the community. Lloyd actively engaged with residents, business owners, and civil organisations, ensuring that his policies reflected the needs of the people.
This inclusive approach strengthened democratic processes and fostered a sense of shared responsibility for Manchester’s future.
Despite his achievements, Lloyd faced challenges during his tenure, including navigating political pressures and meeting the evolving needs of the city’s population. However, he remained steadfast in his commitment to justice, equality, and the welfare of Manchester’s residents.
In 2017, Lloyd contested the mayoral election as a Labour candidate but lost to Andy Burnham, who won with over 50% of the vote. Lloyd finished second with 29%.
After the election loss, Lloyd returned to parliamentary work. In 2017, he was elected as the MP for Rochdale as part of the Labour Party. Since then, he has held various roles in Parliament, continuing to advocate for regional development and representing his constituents’ interests.
Tony Lloyd’s life and career are a testament to his dedication to public service. Although not born in Manchester, he devoted much of his life to the city, helping shape its economy, reduce crime, and improve its governance. He has always called Manchester his second home.
Even in his later years, Lloyd remains active in politics despite personal health challenges. In 2023, he began chemotherapy following a cancer diagnosis, yet he continues to attend Parliament and participate in local events.
Tony Lloyd is a living example of a committed public servant who places the welfare of his community above all else.