PERSONAL
I was born on the 29 August 1958 in the ‘Daisy Park’ area of Motherwell. I have lived all my life in the town, and in the Muirhouse area in particular for more than 40 years.
I have been married to Ellen since 1977 (she says she deserves a medal for sticking with me so long). We have a grown-up son and daughter, and have been blessed by a 3 year-old granddaughter, Eva, who insists her grandparents help her visit every swing park and play area in the constituency. Ellen and I are now both experts in the subjects of 'Balamory', 'Peppa Pig' and 'Dora the Explorer' - if you’re a grandparent, you'll know what I mean!
FAMILY UPDATE: Huge welcome to our new grandson Daniel James Roy born in Wishaw on 18th June 2010.
EDUCATION
I attended the Motherwell schools of, The Cathedral Primary, St Brendan’s Primary, St Joseph’s High School and finally Our Lady’s High School.
In 1992 as a mature student I gained an HNC with Merit at Motherwell College. The following two years were spent at Glasgow Caledonian University where I gained a Degree with Distinction in Consumer and Management Studies. I remain truly grateful to both establishments for having the patience and expertise to guide me through the academic world of someone returning to education after nearly twenty years.
EMPLOYMENT
I was a Steelworker in the Ravenscraig Steel works, Motherwell from 1977 and being made redundant in 1992.
Between 1994 and 1997 I was Personal Assistant to Helen Liddell, MP for Monklands East.
MISCELANEOUS
I am a member of Community The Union;
Joined the Labour Party in 1979.
Was an Iron and Steel Trades Confederation (ISTC) Trade Union Shop Steward between 1983 and 1991.
Was Parliamentary Election Agent to my predecessor, Dr Jeremy Bray MP at the 1987 and 1992 General Election.
HOUSE of COMMONS
Elected MP for Motherwell and Wishaw
1997 - Majority 12,791
2001 - 10,956
2005 - 15,222
2010 - 16,806
Parliamentary Private Secretary (PPS) to Helen Liddell as Minister of State, Scotland Office 1999 - 2001;
PPS to Secretaries of State for Scotland, Dr John Reid 1999 - 2001, Helen Liddell 2001.
Private Members Bill enacted as The Aviation Offences Act 2003 (which made Air Rage and Drunkeness on aircraft an arrestable offence).
Assistant Government Whip 2005 - 2006
I was a Government Whip and Lord Commissioner with departmental reponsibility for The Ministry of Defence and The Scotland Office from 2006-2010.
COMMONS SELECT COMMITTEES
Social Security 1997 - 1999
Defence 2001 - 2005
Committee of Selection 2008 - present.
Foreign Affairs Committee 2010 - present
AWAY FROM POLITICS
My main hobby likes millions is watching football - I was a hopeless player.
I like run-of the-mill music from U2, Rod Stewart through to Classical singers and orchestras.
I'd watch most types of films, with the exception of horrors.
My family say I am a renowned DIY expert - renowned for not even attempting it, and when I do, they wished I hadn't bothered. I try - But what more can I say?