Hounslow Council regrets to announce the passing of former Liberal Democrat Councillor John Howliston, who died on 2nd April 2026 at the age of 92.
Having first been elected at a by-election in the East Bedfont ward in 2000, Mr Howliston represented this ward for two years, before going on to represent Bedfont ward for a further eight years until 2010.
Former Councillor Howliston contributed to a wide range of council committees during his time in office. These included the Confidential Cases Sub-Committee, the Licensing Committee, the West Area Committee, the Adoption and Permanence Panel, the Standards Committee and the Corporate Parenting Panel. During his time as a councillor, he was a strong advocate for investment in youth services.
He also represented the Council on several outside bodies, including the Bedfont Lakes Country Park Trust Fund Panel and the David Henry Waring Home Committee.
Beyond his work in local government, Mr Howliston had been honoured by the United Nations for his service in the Korean War. In his professional life, he was also a qualified surveyor and in retirement, remained actively involved in many local organisations, including MENCAP, the Fairtrade Campaign and the Feltham and Bedfont Carnival.
Councillor Shantanu Rajawat, Leader of Hounslow Council, said:
“I was saddened to hear about the passing of former Councillor Howliston and my thoughts are with his family and friends at this time.
“His dedication to public service, both in his military career and in civic life, and his commitment to the local community he served will not be forgotten. His contribution to the borough, and in particular, his commitment to improving services for young people in Hounslow, has left a lasting impact and he will be remembered with great respect.”
The Council will pay tribute to Mr Howliston at its next full Council meeting.
To mark the death of the Councillor, a black ribbon has been placed around the Hounslow Council flag in main reception at Hounslow House.
