Newcastle MP honoured with damehood

A Newcastle-based politician has been recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours List 2025 for her contributions to public life.

Chi Onwurah, Labour MP for Newcastle Central and West, has been made a Dame for political and public service. 

She is among more than 50 people from the North East named in the 2025 Honours List, which celebrates outstanding contributions to public service. 

A former engineer, who studied electrical engineering at Imperial College London, Ms Onwurah has represented Newcastle in Parliament since 2010 and previously worked both in the UK and internationally in France, Nigeria, the US and Denmark.

Ms Onwurah, who is also the chair of the science, innovation and technology select committee, said: “Growing up as the only black family on a council estate in north Newcastle – female, in a one-parent household, on benefits, with a disabled mother – I never imagined I’d one day be called Dame. 

“But I am proud and humbled to accept this honour.

“I accept it on behalf of my constituents, who have placed their trust in me time and again. 

“The North East is not honoured enough, despite the extraordinary work happening across our communities, and I hope this recognition helps shine a light on that.

“I accept it as someone whose life has been shaped by science and engineering – from designing the first double-sided surface mount ISDN card, to helping roll out Nigeria’s first GSM network – and as someone who has worked, both before and after entering Parliament, to open the joys and economic power of STEM to everyone.

“I will use this honour from the King not as a reward, but as a responsibility – to continue fighting for opportunity, equality, and dignity for all my constituents, and to ensure that every voice in Newcastle Central and West is heard and valued.”

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