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Penelope Mary

Penelope Mary Mordaunt, known as Penny Mordaunt, is a British politician born on March 4, 1973, and hails from Torquay, Devon, England, UK. Currently serving as the Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons, she assumed this role on September 6, 2022.

Before this position, Mordaunt held the position of Minister of State at the Department for International Trade from September 16, 2021, to September 6, 2022. She earned a degree in Philosophy from Reading University, where she pursued her academic journey, including experiences working in hospitals and orphanages in Romania after the 1989 revolution. Her diverse political career encompasses roles such as Paymaster General, Secretary of State for Defence, Secretary of State for International Development, Minister for Disabled People, Health and Work, Minister for the Armed Forces, and Minister of Local Government. Additionally, she has been a Member of Parliament since 2010, holding various significant positions within the UK government.

She made sure the UK was safe by putting national defence policies first as Minister for the Armed Forces and Defence Secretary. In plans for a “modern economy,” she talked about how she wanted to boost economic growth and competition. Mordaunt suggested steps to deal with problems caused by the high cost of living on July 1, 2022. In the July 13, 2022, launch of her Tory leadership campaign, she also called for a “relentless focus on the cost of living issues” by supporting lowering the value-added tax (VAT) on fuel and raising the income tax threshold for low- and low-middle-income earners to keep up with inflation. In her work, Mordaunt has fought for equal rights for women, helped with the Brexit talks, and been a part of important events like the coronation of King Charles III in 2023. People noticed her because she was bringing a silver-gilt sword to this important political event. At the coronation of King Charles III, she was honored for her job as Lord President of the Privy Council. She had to give King Charles a valuable sword that was made for the coronation of George IV in 1821 as part of her job. This showed how involved she was in the post and the ceremonial duties.

Following her appointment as Leader of the House of Commons and Lord President of the Privy Council, some critics have voiced concerns and expressed disappointment in her job allocation. Once Mordaunt started working in these positions on September 6, 2022, these criticisms started to show up. Some people thought she might have been hoping for a bigger part in the government. Others have questioned the importance of her duties, seeing them more as formal than useful in shaping policy or government. When looking at Mordaunt’s political career in the Conservative Party and the UK government, these criticisms show how different people feel about it.

Penny Mordaunt Biography

Penny Mordaunt News

Penny Mordaunt Networth

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Speeches

Penny Mordaunt’s speech at the Carter Center in Atlanta took place on December 14, 2021. In this address, she emphasized the significance of trade, diplomacy, and defense as foundational elements of British prosperity. Mordaunt highlighted the importance of free and fair trade, competition-based capitalism, and the UK’s commitment to supporting the multilateral trading system. These key points underscored Mordaunt’s dedication to promoting democratic ideals, advocating for free trade, and strengthening global cooperation for peace and prosperity. This speech showcased Mordaunt’s strategic vision for British prosperity and her commitment to fostering international relations based on democratic principles and collaborative trade practices.

The leader of the House of Commons, Penny Mordaunt, spoke about the contentious anti-boycott bill of the UK government on November 15, 2022, in the House of Commons in London, UK. Aiming to stop public agencies from advocating against foreign entities—more especially, the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement against Israel—the bill was scheduled to return to parliament in January. The Economic Activity of Public Bodies (Overseas Matters) law, which has drawn criticism for its possible effects on progressive causes and human rights campaigns, is scheduled for a third reading, according to Mordaunt.

At the Conservative Conference on October 5, 2023, Mary Mordaunt spoke about the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. She emphasized the need for global unity and denounced regional aggressiveness. She placed a strong emphasis on diplomatic solutions and her steadfast support for Ukraine during this crisis. Among Mordaunt’s main arguments were support for international solidarity, nonviolent resolutions, and aid for those affected by the fighting. Her statement, “In times of crisis, unity, and cooperation are our strongest assets in securing peace and stability for all”.

During her speech and press conference on November 15, 2023, at a high-level UN meeting about the Gaza and Rafah Border Conflict, Penelope Mary Mordaunt stressed the urgent need for international attention and a solution to the region’s growing tensions. She said, “Peace is not merely the absence of conflict but the presence of justice and understanding.” In his speech, Mordaunt emphasized how critical it is to resolve the situation diplomatically and with humanitarian help to lessen the severity of the situation at the border between Gaza and Rafah. Her proactive strategy and unwavering commitment to finding peaceful solutions were applauded, showing advancements in encouraging communication and collaboration to confront the ongoing crisis in Gaza and Rafah.

In December 2023, at the House of Commons in London, Penelope Mary Mordaunt delivered a speech by reciting an alternative version of the 12 Days of Christmas to mock the SNP’s record. This event highlighted Mordaunt’s active engagement in political discourse and her vocal stance on various issues, particularly critiquing the SNP’s performance and governance. During her speech, Mordaunt humorously altered the lyrics of the traditional Christmas carol, stating, “On the first day of Christmas, the SNP gave to me a police force that questions people without cause. On the second day of Christmas, the SNP gave me a health service that can’t provide mental health support.” These satirical adaptations aimed to draw attention to perceived shortcomings in the SNP’s administration and policies, showcasing Mordaunt’s sharp wit and critical approach to political commentary.

Who is Penny Mordaunt?

Penny Mordaunt was Defense Secretary for 85 days before being fired by the new Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, and going back to the backbenches. She went back to work for the government as Paymaster General after the change in February 2020. She was made Minister of State for Trade Policy in the 2021 change. Penny Mordaunt is the daughter of  John Mordaunt, who served in the Parachute Regiment before retraining as a teacher, and her mother died of cancer when Mordaunt was one. She became a carer to her younger brother, but it didn’t affect her education at a comprehensive Roman Catholic state school. She went to Oaklands Roman Catholic School in Waterlooville, Hampshire, for school and the Victoryland Theatre School to study acting. Mordaunt has a philosophy degree from the University of Reading and has worked in public relations, marketing, and charity, among other fields. She is a Sub-Lieutenant in the Royal Navy and has been a member since 2009. She became a Member of Parliament for Portsmouth North for the first time in 2010.As of 2013, Penny Mordaunt was the chair of the Wymering Manor Trust in Portsmouth. She had been a member of the British Astronomical Association. For eight years, she was in charge of the League of Friends visiting team at Portsmouth’s Queen Alexandra Hospital. Mordaunt met Paul Murray while they were both students at the University of Reading. They got married in 1999 but split up the next year. In 2016, she broke up with investor Ian Lyon, who was a part-time classical singer. Mordaunt likes to paint, dance, listen to music, and study the stars. She has four Burmese cats. A British lawmaker named Penny Mordaunt showed kindness by taking a Ukrainian refugee into her home after Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. Even though Mordaunt worked hard for the general good, she had problems. For example, in July 2022, Hampshire Police were investigating death threats against her. These events bring to light both her humanitarian work and the risks of being a popular figure. In the 2019 UK General Election, Penny Mordaunt won Portsmouth North for the Conservative Party with 28,172 votes, or 61.4% of the vote, and a margin of 15,780. Her re-election showed that people strongly supported her. Amanda Martin of the Labour Party got 12,392 votes, which is 27.1% of all the votes cast. She was her closest rival. The findings made it clear that Mordaunt will continue to be the MP for Portsmouth North.Penelope Mary Mordaunt’s biography is illustrated in the table below.
Personal Information
Full NamePenelope Mary Mordaunt
Birthday4 March 1973
SpousePaul Murray ​​(m. 1999; div. 2000)
Number of Children2
PositionLeader of the House of Commons Lord President of the Council
Political PartyConservative
EducationOaklands Catholic School, University of
Political Career
PositionTermPreceded bySucceeded by
Leader of the House of CommonsLord President of the Council6 September 2022Mark Spencer
Secretary of State for Defence1 May 2019 – 24 July 2019Gavin WilliamsonBen Wallace
Secretary of State for International Development9 November 2017 – 1 May 2019Priti PatelRory  Stewart
Minister for Women and Equalities30 April 2018 – 24 July 2019Amber RuddAmber  Rudd
Minister of State for Trade Policy16 September 2021 – 6 September 2022Greg HandsConor Burns
Paymaster General13 February 2020 – 16 September 2021Oliver DowdenMichael Ellis
Minister of State for Disabled People, Work and Health15 July 2016 – 9 November 2017Justin TomlinsonSarah Newton
Minister of State for the Armed Forces11 May 2015 – 15 July 2016Mark FrançoisMike Penning
Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government14 July 2014 – 11 May 2015Nick BolesJames Wharton
Member of Parliamentfor Portsmouth North6 May 2010Sarah McCarthy-Fry

Penny Mordaunt Family

Penny Mordaunt’s great-great-grandfather Edward was active in the Land League in the late 1800s. Her family comes from an Irish Catholic background in County Wexford. Her father, John, who was born on May 18, 1699, at Hilsea Barracks and served in the Parachute Regiment before transitioning to teaching and youth work in Hampshire County Council, and Penny Mordaunt’s mother, Jennifer, was born on June 12, 1866, and worked as a special needs teacher at Purbook schools. She lost her mother to breast cancer when she was fifteen years old, and as a result, she became the primary caretaker for her younger brother Edward in 1988. She has two brothers: James and Edward. Her twin brother James volunteered at a London Nightingale Hospital and served as cabin crew for Virgin Atlantic during the Covid-19 pandemic. Her younger brother, Edward, was a chartered surveyor and had to deal with legal problems stemming from illegal communication on the internet. She was named after HMS Penelope and is related to Philip Snowden, the first Labour Chancellor of the Exchequer, through her mother. Additionally, she is distantly related to former Labour Party leader George Lansbury through her grandmother’s cousin, actress Dame Angela Lansbury. Paul Murray was the husband of Penelope Mary Mordaunt. Paul Murray held the position of assistant hall manager. They met while attending university when their romance started. They were married in 1999 and divorced in 2000. Penny is a childless woman. She also had a long-term romance that ended in 2016 with classical vocalist Ian Lyon.

Penny Mordaunt’s education

Following her early schooling, Penny Mordaunt attended sixth form in Portsmouth and Oaklands Roman Catholic Comprehensive School in Waterlooville, Hampshire. At the Victoryland Theatre School, she later pursued studies in drama. Being the first person in her family to pursue further education, Penny Mordaunt graduated from the University of Reading in 1995 with a degree in philosophy. Penny Mordaunt employed multiple jobs to support herself while attending the University of Reading to study philosophy. She worked in the daytime at nearby manufacturers, such as the Johnson and Johnson plant, and in the evenings as Will Ayling’s assistant, a magician who was the President of the Magic Circle. She entered the fields of social work and philanthropy after achieving success in her studies. She gave her full attention to the Big Lottery Fund from 2003 to 2005, participating in several community and humanitarian projects. Penny Mordaunt went on to become one of Diabetes UK’s six directors between 2006 and 2009.  Her commitment to improving society and tackling significant health and social concerns is demonstrated by her participation in these philanthropic organizations.

Penny Mordaunt’s political career

Penny Mordaunt’s political career began in 2005 when she first ran for Parliament in her hometown of Portsmouth. She has been a Member of Parliament for Portsmouth North since 2010 and has held various ministerial positions within the UK government. Penny Mordaunt has held several key ministerial positions, showcasing her versatility and expertise in different areas. These positions include Minister in Local Government in 2014, Minister for Armed Forces in 2015, Minister of State for Disabled People, Health, and Work in 2016, Secretary of State for International Development in November 2017, Paymaster General in 2020, Minister for International Trade Policy in 2021, and Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons in 2022. Her tenure as Secretary of State for International Development highlights her commitment to global issues and humanitarian efforts, shaping the UK’s international development policies and aid programs. As the Minister for the Armed Forces, she made history as the first woman to hold this position. Her role as Minister of State for Disabled People, Health, and Work, her advocacy for disability rights and welfare, showcases her commitment to social issues. Penny Mordaunt’s consistent electoral success in winning the Portsmouth North seat in 2010, 2015, 2017, and 2019 with increased majorities underscores her popularity and effectiveness as a Member of Parliament. Her recent appointment as Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons in 2022 positions her in the UK government, responsible for overseeing legislative matters and parliamentary business.

Political Party of Penny Mordaunt

Throughout her political career, Penny Mordaunt has consistently demonstrated her long-standing membership in the Conservative Party. In several ministerial capacities and legislative actions, she has continuously embodied the beliefs and ideals of the Conservative Party, supporting its ideas and programs. Given her close ties to the Conservative Party, Penny Mordaunt’s voting record in Parliament largely confirms the party’s positions on important topics. Notably, she frequently votes in a way that aligns with the Conservative Party’s positions on financial policies, welfare, and environmental issues.Penny Mordaunt’s significant participation in the internal dynamics of the Conservative Party is further demonstrated by her participation in the September 2022 Tory leadership campaign, where she faced off against prominent personalities such as Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak. Her campaign efforts and the backing of other MPs and party members underscore her standing inside the Conservative Party, even in the face of fierce competition. All in all, Penny Mordaunt’s strong political ties to the Conservative Party are evident in her long-standing membership, her unwavering adherence to conservative principles, and her active participation in party events and leadership races.The most recent news about Penny Mordaunt’s political career is that she has been collecting funds to build up a $26,000 campaign war chest since Rishi Sunak became Prime Minister. There are still rumors about possible leadership challenges, and Mordaunt will have to work hard to keep her place even though she won it in 2019. Reports and whispers say that there are plans for a coup and leadership challenges in the Conservative Party. Mordaunt’s opponents are being blamed for making things worse. People are also talking about their loyalty to Rishi Sunak and trying to calm down emotions within the party as people speculate about who will be the next leader and plan for possible future elections.

Penny Mordaunt Controversies

In July 2022, Penny Mordaunt got into trouble because of how she felt about trans rights. Sir Iain Duncan Smith, the former head of the Conservative Party, questioned her experience and beliefs. This caused Mordaunt to call the claims “smears.” She denied that she supported a policy that would have made transgender people not need to go through medical procedures. She stressed that all of the ministers in her department supported keeping transgender people involved in medical procedures. This event showed how hard it is to talk about sensitive issues like trans rights in politics. It showed how hard it is for politicians to deal with these kinds of problems without being criticized.In September 2023, Penny Mordaunt got a lot of negative feedback for saying hurtful things in Parliament. She said that Scottish towns were full of rats and Victorian diseases like rickets. People and Scottish MPs were outraged by what she said, which led to harsh criticism of her insulting language and spreading false information. People strongly disagreed with the comments because they were rude and hurtful to Scottish towns. This shows how sensitive and harmful such comments can be in the political world.In February 2024, Penny Mordaunt intervened in a controversy involving Rishi Sunak’s remarks about trans people during PMQs. Following a controversial trans joke made by Sunak, Mordaunt called on the Prime Minister to “reflect” on his comments, adding to the mounting backlash over Sunak’s statements. This incident heightened political tension surrounding trans rights issues, with Mordaunt’s involvement underscoring the significance of addressing sensitive topics like trans rights within the political landscape. The exchange between Mordaunt and Sunak exemplifies the ongoing debates and challenges surrounding LGBTQ+ rights and political discourse.

Penny Mordaunt facts

  • She was named after HMS Penelope, and her father was a parachuter who subsequently became a teacher. From 2010 to 2019, she also served in the Royal Navy.
  • Penny Mordaunt’s stepmother taught at a nearby elementary school, while her mother worked as a special needs teacher. Her father was a Parachute Regiment soldier.
  • Under several prime ministers, she served in several prominent positions in the government, including Secretary of State for International Development, Minister for Women and Equalities, and Secretary of State for Defense.
  • Since 2010, she has served as a member of parliament for Portsmouth North, having won the seat with ever larger margins in several elections.
  • Penny Mordaunt has a broad background, having served as the Conservative Party’s Head of Youth, Head of Broadcasting, and even taking part in US presidential campaigns for George W. Bush.
  • In 2014, she participated in the ITV diving competition “Splash!”, donating her appearance fee to support military organizations and a lido rehabilitation project in her community.
  • With her father being a parachuter and her service in the Royal Navy from 2010 to 2019, Penny Mordaunt has a strong military history.

Penny Mordaunt life

According to some estimates, Penny Mordaunt’s net worth is around £3.3 million, which comes mostly from her work as a British politician. Her yearly political salary is $250,029.00, which includes the money she makes as Leader of the House of Commons and Lord President of the Council. This is because she is a top government official and has responsibilities in parliament.  This places her among wealthier UK politicians compared to the average MP salary of £86,584 annually. While substantial, her net worth is lower than some counterparts like Rishi Sunak, with a fortune of about £730 million.Mordaunt’s income breakdown from her roles as an MP and Minister of State for Trade includes an annual salary of £118,511.00, with monthly earnings of £9,875.92, weekly income of £2,279.06, and a daily wage of £455.81. Living near her Portsmouth constituency in a modest home, the average property price in Portsmouth is around £290,947, making it relatively affordable. Her main income source is her political career, with an estimated net worth of $4 million, earning over $1 million annually, solidifying her status as one of the UK’s influential politicians.Additionally, Mordaunt drove a branded vehicle to the Mayor of Dallas’s office for discussions on an MOU and visited classic car businesses like Eagle in Wealden, showcasing local craft skills and engineering excellence in the classic vehicle industry.Penny Mordaunt’s Contact detailsPenny Mordaunt’s social media accounts are as follows:

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