Baroness Maddock, who died on June 26th, was a strong advocate for social equality and energy-efficient homes and had been President of the National Home Improvement Council since January 2015.
She originally stood as Vice President for the Council since the mid 90’s working alongside then-President Lord Ezra of Horsham and during her time continued to champion initiatives to reduce fuel poverty and improve the nation’s homes.
In her final communication with the Council Diana expressed her enjoyment at the time she spent with members over the years and commended the brilliant way the Council serves its members and the wider home improvement industry.
Chief Executive Anna Scothern said: “We were greatly saddened to hear that Diana has lost her hard-fought battle and I have been overwhelmed by the response from members, as they have reflected on their memories of Diana and the excellent works she did for the sector.
“An impressive Lady who certainly left her mark in so many ways.
“Diana was a real champion for the NHIC and will be greatly missed.
“Diana was a gracious and tenacious, both in her role as President of the NHIC and also as a public servant.
“The work of the NHIC was enriched by Baroness Maddock, her contribution and enthusiasm, something I am sure will be built upon further as a fitting legacy to her memory and motivation to those who follow.
“We are all deeply saddened by this news, and our thoughts and sympathies are with her family at this time”
A former teacher, Baroness Maddock was elected to Southampton City Council 1984 and became the leader of the Liberal Group.
Anna Scothern paid tribute to Baroness Maddock as an ‘inspiration’, ‘role model’ and “friend”.
Following the death of the incumbent Conservative MP Robert Adley, she successfully contested the seat of Christchurch in Dorset at the by-election in 1993.
During her time in the House of Commons, she drove through a private member’s Bill which became the Home Energy Conservation Act in 1995. The law placed a duty on Councils to submit a report to the government on the measures required to improve home energy efficiency by 30% over a 10-15-year period.
She was passionate about social equality and effective government and regularly urged members of the Council to write to their MP’s to express formally how current regulations were not going far enough to reduce fuel poverty, support families, and protect the environment.
She is survived by her two daughters along with husband and fellow peer Lord Beith, formerly MP for Berwick upon Tweed for more than 40 years.