Introduction
Nusrat Munir Ul‑Ghani, commonly known as Nus Ghani, is a prominent British politician and a leading member of the Conservative Party. As the first Muslim woman to hold a ministerial position in the UK government, Nus Ghani has made significant strides in political representation, diversity, and leadership. Over the years, she has become an influential figure in UK politics, known for her work on transport, science, and security, and for her role as the Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons.
Early Life and Education
Nus Ghani was born on September 1, 1972, in Dadyal, Azad Kashmir, Pakistan, and moved to the United Kingdom as a child. She grew up in Birmingham, a city known for its cultural diversity, which had a profound influence on her outlook. Nus attended Bordesley Green Girls’ School in Birmingham and later went on to pursue higher education in the UK.
She studied Government and Politics at Birmingham City University before completing a Master’s degree in International Relations from the University of Leeds. Nus’ academic background, combined with her early experiences as an immigrant, shaped her strong sense of civic duty and passion for public service.
Nus Ghani Entry into Politics
Nus Ghani’s journey into politics was driven by a desire to serve her community and effect change. She was elected as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Wealden in East Sussex in the 2015 general election, becoming one of the few Muslim women in the UK Parliament. Her election to Parliament marked a historic moment in British politics, showcasing the increasing representation of minority communities in political offices.
Nus quickly established herself as a competent and influential MP, focusing on issues that matter to her constituents and to the country. Her work on transport policies, economic growth, and social justice has earned her respect across political divides.
Ministerial Roles
Nus Ghani’s talent and dedication did not go unnoticed, and she was appointed to a number of ministerial roles. In 2018, she was appointed Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Aviation and Maritime in the Department for Transport, making her one of the most prominent women in UK government at the time.
Her work in transport policy, particularly in aviation and maritime issues, focused on improving infrastructure and enhancing national security. She was also involved in efforts to address the growing need for better transport services for rural areas, a key issue for her constituency in Wealden.
In addition to her role in transport, Nus was appointed Minister of State for Science and Investment Security in 2022. She played a crucial role in safeguarding the UK’s critical infrastructure and ensuring that the country remains at the forefront of technological innovation and security.
Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons
In July 2024, Nus Ghani was elected as the Chairman of Ways and Means and Principal Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons. This is a significant role in Parliament, as it involves overseeing debates, ensuring the rules of Parliament are followed, and representing the Speaker in their absence.
As Deputy Speaker, Nus has become one of the most senior figures in Parliament, responsible for ensuring that the business of the House runs smoothly and fairly. Her role as the presiding officer of the House reflects her leadership skills and her ability to manage complex political proceedings.
Nus Ghani Personal Life
Nus Ghani is married to David Wheeldon, a professional in public policy and communications. The couple has one child. Nus has consistently maintained a balance between her demanding political career and her family life, often mentioning in interviews the importance of her family’s support in her political journey.
Despite her high-profile position, Nus remains grounded and accessible, often engaging with her constituents and the public through social media and outreach programs. She is also active in promoting diversity in politics and leadership, encouraging young people from underrepresented backgrounds to pursue careers in public service.
Nus Ghani Political Views and Advocacy
Nus Ghani is a member of the Conservative Party, but she is known for her pragmatic approach to policy, often working across party lines to achieve practical solutions for the country. Some of her key political stances include:
- Support for Brexit: Ghani was a strong advocate for Brexit and the UK’s exit from the European Union, believing that it would allow the country to regain control over its borders and economy.
- Focus on Transport and Infrastructure: As Minister for Transport, she worked on improving transportation services, especially in rural areas, and ensuring the UK’s transport infrastructure remained world-class.
- Champion of Science and Technology: As Minister for Science, Ghani has been an advocate for investment in science, technology, and innovation, particularly in securing the UK’s national security infrastructure.
Ghani has also been vocal on issues of social justice, particularly regarding the inclusion of minorities and women in political life, and has worked to promote equality of opportunity for all citizens.
Challenges and Controversies
Like many prominent politicians, Nus Ghani has faced some challenges and controversies during her career. In 2021, she made headlines after claiming that she had been a victim of Islamophobia within the Conservative Party, particularly after being removed from a ministerial role. Her claim sparked debates within the party, with some calling for investigations into the matter.
Despite the controversy, Nus has remained a strong and vocal advocate for inclusion and diversity within politics and has continued her work as a senior government official.
Weight Loss and Health
Nus Ghani has been open about her health and weight loss journey in recent years, encouraging others to focus on mental well-being alongside physical health. She has shared insights into the importance of leading a healthy lifestyle while managing the pressures of her career.
Conclusion
Nus Ghani is a trailblazing politician who has made remarkable strides in UK politics, breaking barriers for women and Muslims in the political landscape. From her early days in Wealden to her current role as Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons, Nus has dedicated her career to public service and advocating for better opportunities for all.
Her achievements are a testament to her commitment to diversity, fairness, and leadership, and she continues to serve as an inspiration to many young people across the UK.