The IDU is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of The Right Honourable Dame Cheryl Gillan

The International Democrat Union (IDU) is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of The Right Honourable Dame Cheryl Gillan, DBE MP.

At the 2018 IDU Summit in Madrid, Dame Cheryl was elected as an IDU Assistant Chairwoman. As a passionate defender of freedom, democracy, and human rights, she contributed to our global projects. She was a strong and inspirational personality for us all, as well as a caring friend to the entire IDU family.

Throughout her political career, Dame Cheryl served in various positions in the House of Commons and the British Government. She was the first woman to be appointed Secretary of State for Wales in 2010 and had represented her constituency of Chesham and Amersham since 1992.

A popular figure in her party, she was awarded a Damehood in 2018 for her services to British society. Dame Cheryl also gained appreciation for her work as Vice-Chair of the 1922 Committee of Conservative backbenchers and as Chairwoman of the Political Affairs Committee of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe.

The IDU sends their sincere condolences to her family and friends. We miss her dearly.