The Hansard name has been linked to parliamentary printing and debates since 1774, originating with Luke Hansard, the first official Printer to the House of Commons. Appointed by the Speaker, Hansard and his successors were responsible for printing parliamentary papers and compiling accurate records of debates. 

Published Monday, February 24, 1975 

Dr John Hansard on visit

Dr John Henry Hansard, the last remaining member of the Hansard family, who have been printers to the House of Commons since 1799, recently made courtesy calls on the governor-general at King’s House and on the Speaker of the House, the Hon Ripton McPherson. They had discussions on the keeping of parliamentary records, which in Jamaica is known as 'Hansard'.

The family’s work has been responsible for the addition of two words to the English language —“Hansard” and “hansardize”.

The name Hansard has been associated with parliamentary papers, printing, and debates since 1774. It originated with Luke Hansard, an ancestor of John Henry Hansard, who was the first Printer to the House of Commons. Luke Hansard and his successors were appointed by the Speaker and were responsible to him for the House of Commons printing — The Parliamentary Papers.

Another branch of the family has been responsible for compiling parliamentary debates, and made a great contribution to Parliament by publishing and printing daily in the Debates the most accurate and impartial accounts of each day’s speeches in the House of Commons and Lords.

Dr Hansard, who is a director of Carreras Rothmans International, was last in Jamaica in 1973 when Carreras of Jamaica celebrated its 10th anniversary. He was also responsible for setting up the Carreras operations in Jamaica in 1962.

He is currently holidaying with his wife on the north coast.

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