Tributes Emerge for Harold Wilson Amid Revelations of Financial Struggles

Former politicians have paid tribute to Harold Wilson, the twice Labour prime minister, following the release of Cabinet Office files that reveal the challenges he faced in his later years. Wilson, who passed away in 1995 at the age of 79, suffered from Alzheimer’s and colon cancer, and was reportedly forced to consider selling his personal and political papers to cover the escalating costs of his dementia care. The files indicate that in 1990, the Thatcher government was concerned about Wilson's plans to sell his archive to McMaster University for £212,500, a significant sum in today’s terms. Wilson, who led the Labour Party for 13 years and served as prime minister from 1964 to 1970 and again from 1974 to 1976, had announced his resignation at the age of 60, just two years after winning his fourth election. His declining mental health left him unable to write or speak publicly, limiting his income to his pension as a former prime minister. Former Labour leader Neil Kinnock noted the disparity in support for leaders from different political backgrounds, suggesting that Conservative leaders had more financial backing and opportunities post-office. Lord Donoughue, who worked closely with Wilson, lamented the lack of support for Labour leaders during that era, stating that it was assumed they would manage on their own. He expressed sadness at witnessing Wilson's struggles in the House of Lords, where he appeared disoriented and unable to recall previous conversations. The revelations paint a poignant picture of a leader who, despite his significant contributions to British politics, faced profound challenges in his twilight years.