Hounslow Council has announced the passing of former Liberal Democrat Councillor John Howliston, who died on 2 April 2026 at the age of 92. A prominent figure in local civic life for over a decade, Mr Howliston was a dedicated representative for the Bedfont area and a decorated veteran of the Korean War.
His passing marks the end of a long chapter of public service that spanned military duty, professional expertise as a surveyor, and ten years of elected office. The local authority confirmed that a black ribbon has been placed around the Hounslow Council flag at the main reception of Hounslow House as a mark of respect, a traditional gesture reserved for those who have made a significant impact on the borough’s governance.
A decade of representation in Bedfont and East Bedfont
John Howliston first entered local politics through a by-election in the East Bedfont ward in 2000. His victory began a ten-year tenure within the council chambers, where he initially represented East Bedfont for two years before transitioning to represent the Bedfont ward for a further eight years until 2010.
During his time in office, Mr Howliston was known for his meticulous approach to committee work. He was a member of the West Area Committee, where local planning and environmental issues were decided, and served on the Licensing Committee. His colleagues often noted his attention to detail, likely a trait carried over from his professional career as a qualified surveyor. This technical background provided him with a unique perspective on local infrastructure and land use, which he applied to his duties on various panels.
Advocacy for youth services and vulnerable residents
Beyond the administrative functions of the council, Mr Howliston was a vocal advocate for social welfare. He held positions on several sensitive committees, including the Confidential Cases Sub-Committee and the Standards Committee. His work on the Corporate Parenting Panel and the Adoption and Permanence Panel demonstrated a career-long commitment to the wellbeing of children in the care of the state.
He frequently campaigned for increased investment in youth services, arguing that providing robust support for the younger generation was a fundamental duty of local government. This dedication extended to his work with outside bodies, where he represented the Council on the David Henry Waring Home Committee and the Bedfont Lakes Country Park Trust Fund Panel. His involvement with the country park helped ensure that one of the borough’s most significant green spaces remained a viable resource for local families.
Military service and community involvement
John Howliston’s life of service began long before his election to Hounslow Council. He was a veteran of the Korean War, a conflict for which he received formal honours from the United Nations. This military background informed much of his civic outlook, fostering a sense of duty that continued well into his retirement.
In his later years, he remained deeply embedded in the fabric of the Hounslow community. He was an active supporter of MENCAP, working to improve the lives of people with learning disabilities. His commitment to ethical trade was seen in his involvement with the Fairtrade Campaign, and he was a familiar face at the Feltham and Bedfont Carnival, an event he supported for many years.
Formal tributes and civic recognition
Councillor Shantanu Rajawat, Leader of Hounslow Council, expressed the collective sadness of the local authority following the news. He noted that Mr Howliston’s dedication to public service, both in his military career and in his role as a councillor, left a lasting impact on the borough. The Leader specifically highlighted his commitment to improving services for young people as a defining part of his legacy.
Hounslow Council will pay a formal tribute to Mr Howliston at its next full Council meeting. This will provide an opportunity for councillors from all political parties to reflect on his contributions to the Bedfont community and the wider borough. For now, the black ribbon at Hounslow House serves as a public reminder of a life dedicated to the residents of West London.
Source: London Borough of Hounslow
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