Who Is Father Of The House Corbyn? A Look At His Legacy

Sir Edward Leigh has been Father of the House since the 2024 general election. He’s been a Member of Parliament (MP) continuously for Gainsborough (previously Gainsborough and Horncastle) since 1983. While other MPs, like Roger Gale and Jeremy Corbyn, have also served continuously since 1983, Leigh was sworn in first, making him the Father of the House.

The Father of the House is a title given to the longest-serving member of the House of Commons. It’s an honorific position, not a formal role with specific duties. However, the Father of the House often acts as a mentor to newer MPs, offering guidance and advice. They also play a key role in ceremonial events, such as presiding over the swearing-in of new MPs.

Jeremy Corbyn, while also serving continuously since 1983, was not sworn in first. This means he does not hold the title of Father of the House, despite his long tenure in Parliament. It’s important to remember that the title is not determined solely by the length of service but by the order in which MPs are sworn in.