Frank Cousins (British politician)

Frank Cousins (23 September 1904 – 11 June 1986) was a prominent British trade union leader and Labour politician. He served as the General Secretary of the Transport and General Workers' Union (TGWU), one of Britain's largest trade unions, from 1956 to 1969.

Cousins was a strong advocate for workers' rights and played a significant role in shaping Labour Party policy during the mid-20th century. He was known for his left-wing views and his opposition to nuclear weapons.

In 1964, he was appointed Minister of Technology in Harold Wilson's Labour government. However, he resigned from this position in 1966 due to disagreements over the government's incomes policy. He continued to serve as a Member of Parliament for Nuneaton until 1970.

Cousins's tenure as General Secretary of the TGWU saw the union become a powerful force in British industry and politics. He was a key figure in negotiations with employers and the government on issues such as wages, working conditions, and industrial relations. He retired from the TGWU in 1969.

After his retirement from politics, Cousins remained active in public life, writing and speaking on issues of concern to him. He is remembered as a significant figure in the history of the British trade union movement and the Labour Party.