William Norton

William Norton (1900-1963), Irish politician, Labour Party leader (1932-1960).

William Norton was born in Dublin in 1900. He joined the postal service in 1916. By 1920 he was a prominent member in the trade union movement in Ireland. From 1924 to 1948 he served as secretary of the Post Office Workers' Union. He became a TD for County Dublin in 1926. He represented Kildare from 1932 until his death.

In 1932 he became leader of the Labour Party. In the first iner-party government, (1948-1951), Norton became Tánaiste and Minister for Social Welfare. In the second inter-party government, (1954-1957), Norton served as Tánaiste and Minister for Industry and Commerce.

William Norton died in Dublin in 1963.

Preceded by: T.J O'Connor

Leader of the Irish Labour Party (1932-1960)

Followed by: Brendan Corish