Iain Coleman, Former MP and Council Leader, Dies Aged 67
His successor Andy Slaughter praises his 'closest political friend'
Iain Coleman
September 25, 2025
Iain Coleman, former Labour MP for Hammersmith & Fulham, died on 20 September at the age of 67. A committed public servant and socialist, Mr Coleman has been remembered for his sharp political instincts, deep compassion, and unwavering dedication to those most in need.
He began his political career in local government, elected to Hammersmith & Fulham Council in 1986. He quickly rose to prominence, becoming Leader of the Council from 1991 to 1996, where he was praised for his strategic skill and inclusive leadership. In 1997, he was elected MP for Hammersmith & Fulham, holding the seat through two terms until 2005. His tenure in Parliament was marked by a strong focus on social justice, housing, and refugee rights.
A series of strokes in his 40s forced him to step down at the 2005 General Election. Though his health declined in the years that followed, his legacy endured in the borough he helped shape and among the many communities he served.
His political partnership with his wife, Dame Sally Powell—a senior figure in the national Labour Party—was widely recognised. Together, they were a formidable presence in Hammersmith & Fulham, often described as a local ‘power couple’ whose influence extended across council chambers and national party structures.
Friends and colleagues recall Mr Coleman’s warmth, humour, and love of football. A devoted Arsenal supporter, he famously cleared his MP diary to attend matches, a detail that once drew the attention of the Evening Standard. His political friendships were forged in solidarity, including a memorable trip to the Tolpuddle Martyrs’ anniversary in 1984, which marked the beginning of decades of camaraderie and shared campaigning.
Andy Slaughter MP, who succeeded Coleman in representing the area, paid tribute to his friend and mentor, “Iain was my closest political friend. I will remember him for all the fun times we had, most of which are not repeatable here, but above all I will treasure his memory for his social conscience and the example he set. He led Hammersmith & Fulham with great skill and served all its residents, but here as in Parliament his passion was for those left behind—for refugees, for those suffering discrimination or whom society had failed.”
He added, “He believed in the power of the welfare state to give everyone a decent quality of life. He was conscientious with his casework and represented his constituents fiercely, probably to the detriment of his own health and welfare. Residents still often ask me about him and remember his kindness. He will leave a hole in the lives of the many people and communities he touched. A good socialist, a good friend and a good man.”
Iain Coleman is survived by Dame Sally Powell and their extended family.
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