ONE of the most controversial figures of the Tony Blair Government has been given the ancient civic role of High Steward of Hull.
Lord Mandelson was officially installed in the post, first created 430 years ago, alongside the new Sheriff of Hull Baroness Bottomley at a Guildhall ceremony today.
The former Labour cabinet minister, known to his critics as the Prince of Darkness for his role as New Labour spin doctor, said: "My hope is that I can become an additional ambassador for the city.
"Hull has so many strengths and I am only too happy to help the city build on them.
"I don't want to get in the way of things that are already going on but if I can be of use on certain issues then I will beat the drum for Hull."
Lord Mandelson, who follows his late grandfather Herbert Morrison in holding the title, said he would be joining efforts to secure investment in Hull by German engineering giant Siemens.
Baroness Bottomley, who is also Vice Chancellor at the University of Hull, said she also intended to fly the flag for the city and, in particular, its bid to become UK City of Culture in 2017.
She said: "I have already spoken about the bid in the House of Lords and I believe Hull has every chance of being successful.
"There is such a cultural legacy here with figures such as Andrew Marvell, William Wilberforce, Philip Larkin and Andrew Motion while the cultural infrastructure is also fantastic with places such as the Ferens Art Gallery, Hull Truck and, of course, The Deep."
