British Library acquires archive of SDP co-founder Shirley Williams

Exclusive: Papers, notebooks, letters, speeches and photos from 60-year career in public life donated by daughter

The British Library has acquired the archive of Shirley Williams, one of the most influential figures in British social democracy in the second half of the 20th century, who was known affectionately as Shirl the Pearl" by her admirers.

Lady Williams, who died aged 90 in 2021, was a Labour cabinet minister in the 1970s and was later a member of the Gang of Four" that broke away from the Labour party to form the Social Democratic party (SDP).

Shirley Williams: A Life in Politics is at the British Libraries' treasures gallery from 15 September until 25 February