Richard Irwin Harrington, Baron of Watford (born 4 November 1957) is a British politician. He served as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Watford from 2010 to 2019. He was the Minister for Business and Industry from 2017 to 2019.
In March 2022, Harrington was appointed Minister of State for Refugees, with him being in charge of the UK's response to the humanitarian crisis caused by the Russian invasion of Ukraine. He was elevated to Lord. In August 2022, the government announced that under his leadership, over 100,000 Ukrainian war refugees were safe in the UK. In September 2022, Harrington stepped down from the role, having completed his task.
Early Life
Harrington was born on 4 November 1957 in Leeds to a British Jewish family. He was educated at Leeds Grammar School and attended Keble College and Oxford University. He began his career in business with a graduate scheme at the John Lewis Partnership.
Career
In 1983, he founded Harvington Properties with two friends from his university.
Before he became a minister, Harrington was Vice Chairman of the Conservative Party and was David Cameron's Apprenticeship Advisor.
Harrington supports a range of charities, including the Variety Club Children's Society and several Watford charities.
Notes
- ↑ Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Syrian Refugees from 2015 to 2016.
- ↑ As Minister for Afghan Resettlement.
- ↑ As Minister for Afghan Resettlement. Office vacant between 17 July 2016 and 16 September 2021.
