Ed Balls MP to launch Gareth's Trust on July 2nd

Ed Balls, the Education Secretary, has very kindly agreed to launch the History Trust on July 2nd in Westminster. Venue and other speakers still to be confirmed but it looks like we've really got the ball rolling now! I'm hoping to get the Atrium in 4 Millbank which is the building where Gareth worked for the Politics Show. The Atrium was a regular after-work drinking venue for both of us, and in fact, was also where Gareth and I met, so there are numerous reasons why it would be a more than suitable place to hold the launch. Fingers crossed that the manager can give us a good deal, and that it's free for the evening...

I've also had a second Cabinet Minister endorse the Trust today: Hazel Blears the Communities Secretary. Hazel knows a lot about the lack of opportunities kids from poorer backgrounds face from her tireless work in local communities, and in her own Salford constituency. I'm really pleased she recognises that the Trust can play a small role in trying to open up avenues for these students in the field of history. The endorsement reads:

"I am delighted to endorse the work of the Gareth Butler History Trust. The trust's aims of giving school children from poorer backgrounds the same kinds of experiences as children from affluent backgrounds is both laudable and progressive. Children need a good grounding in our country's history, especially the history of conflict. Only by understanding the past can we navigate our collective future. I am sure the GBHT will be a fitting and living memorial to Gareth, and there will be hundreds of kids who never knew him who will have good cause to thank him." Rt. Hon. Hazel Blears MP, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government.

Thanks Hazel!