Here is the latest nomination in our series highlighting people David Cameron should consider appointing to the House of Lords.
If you would like to nominate someone, please email Jonathan Isaby with your suggestion, ideally including key arguments for the nomination as well as biographical information. The sources of nominations will be treated confidentially where requested.
No. 34: Edward Lister
Dominic Schofield writes:
"My nomination goes to Cllr Edward Lister, the Leader of Wandsworth Borough Council in London.
"Edward has led one of Britain’s best performing local authorities for over a decade. In that time, he has continued to drive the delivery of quality services and still charge the lowest council tax in the country.
"The Conservatives stormed to power in Wandsworth Town Hall in the late 70s.They held power during the 80s in the face of bitter Labour opposition and challenge, and have continued in power with ever larger majorities. In the 90s and 2000s, Conservative rule in Wandsworth has resisted the temptation to ‘consolidate’, but continued to seek improvement.
"Edward’s leadership is one marked by the constant search for improvement and further innovation across all areas. I would draw particular attention to the Borough’s outstanding Housing Department, which is unrivalled for the maintenance of its estates, for its efforts to tackle yobbish behaviour and crime, and support community initiative and endeavour. Five years ago, they turned disused space on estates into flats under the Hidden Homes Initiative. At every election, the Conservatives have strengthened their position – even though at the 1997 and 2001 elections the Borough returned three Labour MPs.
"Edward would make an outstanding contribution to Parliament’s Upper House. As one of London’s longest serving and most effective civic leaders, his contribution to debate and policy would be wide-ranging. His sharp mind and endearing manner would be an asset as we steer legislation through Parliament to repair the ‘broken society’ and rebuild civic institutions.
"In light of the recent splash of slease, the Upper House needs new peers like Edward, who with outstanding track records and experience outside Westminster, would do much to restore the reputation for probity, reasoned debate and integrity that the House of Lords traditionally has held."
> Previous nomination: Sir Jonathan Sacks