Reporter and broadcaster who would go on to have a successful political career, holding a variety of positions until 2005.
His first television gig was in 1961, when he was featured in a TV ad for the blackcurrant cordial drink, Ribena.
He hosted a discussion show from 2002 until 2007 titled Dinner with Portillo, in which he and seven guests would discuss political and social issues over a four-course meal.
He married Carolyn Eadie in 1982. His father, John Blyth, was a successful linen mill owner.
He was an ardent admirer of Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, serving as junior minister under her and continuing to advocate a pure Thatcherite course even after the Iron Lady left office.
