Born in Peterborough, Richard has a degree in economics from the University of Wales.
Richard is a multi-linguist, speaking Norwegian, Danish, Swedish and French together with a working knowledge of British Sign Language. He is also a keen environmentalist who keeps a number of animals. He also speaks on animal welfare issues for the GLA Conservatives.
Richard Barnes' Experience
Richard has been involved in local Conservative politics since 1980, serving as a local councillor in the London Borough of Hillingdon since 1982. He was leader of the Conservatives on Hillingdon Council from 1992 to 2000 and Leader of the Conservative Council between January 1992 and August 1986 and May 1998 and July 2000. He continues to serve on Hillingdon Council representing the Harefield ward. Richard is also a member (non-executive) of North West London Strategic Health Authority.
His responsibilities in the London Assembly include:
GLA responsibilities
·Conservative spokesman Policing, Crime and resilience.
·Deputy Chair, Metropolitan Police Authority.
·Member of the Health Committee.
·Member of the Standards Committee.
·Chairman, GLA Standing Orders Committee.
He was re-elected to the London Assembly in June 2004, and became Deputy Leader of the Conservative Group in 2006.