LONDON — Lord Dick Taverne, one of the founding figures of the Liberal Democrats and a lifelong advocate for centrist, evidence-based politics, has died peacefully at his home in London at the age of 97. His family announced his passing, describing him as a “much loved and loving husband, father, and grandfather.”
Born in 1928, Taverne enjoyed a long and distinguished career in British politics. He first entered Parliament in 1962 as the Labour MP for Lincoln, where he served until 1974. During his time in office, he held key roles in the Treasury and the Home Department, earning a reputation for intelligence and independence of thought. His defining political act came in 1973, when he resigned from the Labour Party in protest over its growing opposition to Britain’s membership in the European Union. Running as an independent, he won the Lincoln by-election, a rare feat that underscored his courage and popularity.
In the years that followed, Lord Taverne became a central figure in Britain’s centrist movement. He was instrumental in the merger of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and the Liberal Party in 1988, which led to the creation of the Liberal Democrats. Known for his calm intellect and unwavering belief in rational policymaking, he continued to shape the party’s direction behind the scenes and remained an active voice for pro-European values.
Outside Parliament, Lord Taverne made significant contributions to economics and public policy. In 1970, he became the first Director of the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS), an organization now regarded as one of the UK’s most trusted voices on economic research and fiscal policy. His commitment to facts, transparency, and analytical rigor reflected his deep belief that government decisions should always be guided by evidence rather than ideology.
Tributes have poured in from across the political spectrum. Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey hailed him as “a passionate, principled, and thoughtful colleague whose vision for fair and evidence-based politics remains as vital as ever.” Former colleagues praised his warmth, intellect, and quiet determination to serve the public good.
Lord Taverne was appointed to the House of Lords in 1996, where he continued to speak out on science, Europe, and responsible governance. He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Janice, and their daughters, Suzanna and Caroline. His life stands as a testament to integrity, reason, and the enduring power of conviction in public service.