MP for Alyn and Deeside from 1983-2001 and former East Flint MP from 1970 to 1983.
After a brief spell at Shotton Steelworks, Lord Barry entered teaching and became head of English at Deeside secondary school. He went on to become a NUT regional organiser.
His first attempt to become an MP failed in 1966 when he contested and lost in Northwich, Cheshire. However he was successful on home ground in 1970 when he won the East Flint ward and, after boundary changes, he took over the ward of Alyn and Deeside which he retained for 18 years until his retirement.
During three decades as a politician Lord Barry was Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Wales, Opposition Spokesman on Employment, Shadow Secretary of State for Wales and on the Parliamentary Intelligence and Security Committee.
In the wake of the 1992 elections - Labour's fourth successive loss - he retired to the backbenches along with Neil Kinnock and Roy Hattersley.
Within his constituency Lord Barry, known as "Battling Barry", had the respect of many people for his campaigning style. The life-long Everton fan was at the forefront of the development of the A55 expressway through North Wales along with Deeside Industrial Park and the Third Dee Crossing, otherwise known as the Flintshire Bridge.
But Lord Barry, who is married to Janet with whom he has a son, Stephen, is best known for his battle to protect jobs within his constituency, particularly the steel and areospace industries.
In fact, when Lord Barry announced he was stepping down, Prime Minister Tony Blair led the tributes saying he was a man who fought hard for the people and who was completely dedicated to the job.
Political career:
1970-1983: MP for Flint East
1983-2001: MP for Alyn and Deeside until retirement
1972-1974: PPS to Dennis Healey
1974-1979: Parliamentary Under-Sec of State for Wales
1981-1983: Opposition Spokesman on Employment
1983-1992: Shadow Secretary of State for Wales
From 1993: Member of Commons Chairmen's Panel
From 1994: Parliamentary Intelligence and Security Committee
