British politician, author, and TV/stage performer Ann Widdecombe was the Minister of State for Employment from 1993 to 1995 and the Minister of State for Prisons from 1995 to 1997, both under the leadership of former Prime Minister John Major. An Oxford alumna, she was elected as a Member of Parliament for Maidstone in 1987. She has represented South West England in the European Parliament, been the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Social Security, and has held several Shadow Cabinet posts. Known for her outspoken personality, she has been vocal about her opposition to same-sex marriage and abortion. She has also opposed fox hunting. She is a reputed author who has written columns, several novels, and a memoir. A popular entertainer, too, she has appeared on several game/reality shows, agony aunt shows, and pantomimes.
