Christopher Francis Patten, Baron Patten of Barnes, CH, PC, is a distinguished British politician and public servant recognized for his contributions to British politics and international affairs. Born on 12 May 1944 in Thornton Cleveleys, Lancashire, and raised in west London, Patten's intellectual prowess led him to study history at Balliol College, Oxford. After graduating in 1965, his career quickly advanced within the Conservative Party.

His political journey includes serving as Member of Parliament for Bath from 1979 to 1992, where he held several significant posts. Notably, he was appointed Secretary of State for the Environment under Margaret Thatcher, playing a central role in the implementation of the controversial poll tax. As Chairman of the Conservative Party and Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster during John Major's term as Prime Minister, he masterminded the Conservatives' unexpected electoral triumph in 1992 but lost his seat in the process.

Patten's legacy is particularly marked by his tenure as the 28th and last Governor of Hong Kong from 1992 to 1997, overseeing the territory's preparations for its transfer to China. His governorship saw the expansion of social welfare and the introduction of democratic reforms. Following this, Patten chaired the Independent Commission on Policing for Northern Ireland, contributing to the peace process after the Good Friday Agreement.

His international influence extended further as he served as European Commissioner for External Relations from 1999 to 2004. Upon returning to the UK, Patten was made a life peer in 2005. He has been Chancellor of the University of Oxford since 2003, a role he also held at Newcastle University from 1999 to 2009. Additionally, Patten led the BBC Trust from 2011 to 2014, demonstrating his leadership across various sectors.