Anne Begg

Biography

I was born in 1955, and brought up in Brechin, Angus where I attended Damacre Primary School and Brechin High School. From there I went to the University of Aberdeen, graduating in 1976 with an MA in History and Politics.

In 1978 I began teaching English and History at Webster's High School in Kirriemuir. In 1988 I became Assistant Principal Teacher of English at Arbroath Academy, rising to Principal Teacher in 1991. It was this post I relinquished, and sometimes still miss, when elected in 1997.

Inheriting the genetic condition Gaucher's disease has never stopped me from achieving my goals. In fact, I christened my wheelchair my "liberator". I was honoured to be named as Disabled Scot of the Year in 1988 in recognition of the work I happily undertook in the local community.

In Parliament my political interests include social justice, welfare reform, pensions, equality (with an emphasis on disability), genetics and broadcasting.

In my maiden speech on May 21st 1997 I spoke on the Referendum Bill for a Scottish Parliament, part of which features in the video "Great Parliamentary Speeches".

I am a member of the House of Commons Chairmen's Panel where I deputise for the Speaker in Westminster Hall debates and on Public Bill committees. I am also a senior member of the Work and Pensions Select Committee, Secretary of the All Party Parliamentary BBC Group. I am also chair of the All Party Group on Equalities, the All Party Group on Oil & Gas and the All Party Commercial Radio group.

I am a fellow of the Industry and Parliament Trust having undertaken a placement with the oil company Chevron.

To find out more about me and my work for the people of Aberdeen South, visit my website: www.annebegg.info.