Dobson, Frank (1940- )

British Labour politician, secretary of state for health from 1997. Sponsored by the National Union of Railwaymen, he represented the London constituency of Holborn and St Pancras from 1979. He was opposition spokesperson on education 1981-83, shadow health minister 1983-87, shadow leader of the Commons 1987-89, and opposition spokesperson on energy 1989-92. After John Smith became Labour leader, Dobson served as opposition spokesperson on employment 1992-93, transport and London 1993-94, and environment and London 1994-97, under the new Labour Leader, Tony Blair. As health secretary, he fought with the Treasury for more funds to enable the rise in numbers of those on waiting lists to be reversed.

Born at Dunnington, near York, he was educated at the London School of Economics. Before entering Parliament he worked for the Central Electricity Generating Board 1962-70, the Electricity Council 1970-75, and then in the office of the local government ombudsman 1975-79. Before entering the House of Commons he served on Camden Borough Council 1971-76, and as its leader 1973-75.