Shabana Mahmood: lord chancellor with political nous unafraid to shake up system

Her introduction to politics began in Birmingham as the child of a Labour councillor and as justice secretary she’s made tough decisions from day oneShabana Mahmood’s potential as a future cabinet minister was first noticed by the former deputy Labour leader Tom Watson in the 90s over tea and samosas at her family’s end-of-terrace Birmingham home.Watson, a seasoned fixer, had become a close friend of her father, Mahmood Ahmed, a Labour councillor. When political problems arose, Watson and fellow Labour party organisers would be guided through to comfy sofas in the family sitting room. Continue reading...

Apr 4, 2025 - 19:29
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Shabana Mahmood: lord chancellor with political nous unafraid to shake up system

Her introduction to politics began in Birmingham as the child of a Labour councillor and as justice secretary she’s made tough decisions from day one

Shabana Mahmood’s potential as a future cabinet minister was first noticed by the former deputy Labour leader Tom Watson in the 90s over tea and samosas at her family’s end-of-terrace Birmingham home.

Watson, a seasoned fixer, had become a close friend of her father, Mahmood Ahmed, a Labour councillor. When political problems arose, Watson and fellow Labour party organisers would be guided through to comfy sofas in the family sitting room. Continue reading...