Paul O'Grady

That this House expresses its sadness on the untimely passing of Paul O’Grady; celebrates the life of a much-loved entertainer, writer, actor, and comedian; recognises the great pride that the people of Birkenhead have taken over many years in the continued success of their favourite son; commends the trailblazing work that he did to introduce drag to a wider, mainstream audience in the persona of Lily Savage; applauds his extensive support for a number of charitable causes, most notably in the field of animal welfare but also as fundraiser for HIV AIDs research, amongst others; remembers him also as a man of great political principle and as a sometimes trenchant critic of Government policy, including the Thatcher Government’s approach to LGBTQ+ rights and cuts to frontline services implemented by the Conservative-Liberal Democratic coalition; and extends heartfelt sympathies to his husband Andre, family, friends and many fans.