A FORMER MP for Wanstead and Woodford who formed part of Margaret Thatcher’s cabinet has died aged 90.

Lord Patrick Jenkin died peacefully at his home in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, his family confirmed today (Wednesday, December 21).

He was elected as Conservative MP for Wanstead and Woodford in 1964, after the constituency boundaries changed and wartime Prime Minister Winston Churchill left his post.

He was then given the job of financial secretary under Edward Heath’s Government, before becoming chief secretary for the treasury and energy minister.

He famously urged people around the country to save energy by brushing their teeth in the dark during the three day week, while his London home shone with all the lights on.

After Margaret Thatcher was elected in 1979, he was her secretary of state for social services, industry secretary and environment secretary.

He left the Commons in 1985 and became a Life Peer in the House of Lords two years later.

In his later years he is best known for backing David Cameron’s same-sex marriage law.

He said: “I have come to the firm conclusion there is nothing to fear in gay marriage, and indeed, it will be a positive good not just for same-gender unions but for the institution of marriage generally.”

He also urged Church of England leaders to be more tolerant of gay marriage.

Lord Jenkins leaves behind his wife and son, Conservative MP for Harwich and North Essex Bernard.