Latest politics: Sir Tony Blair remembers ‘extraordinary’ John Prescott after death aged 86 | Politics News

Former Labor Party deputy prime minister John Prescott has died at the age of 86 after a battle with Alzheimer’s, his family announced.

The former political giant served as MP for Kingston upon Hull East for 40 years and was a key part of New Labor under Sir Tony Blair.

His family said he “spent his life trying to improve the lives of others, fighting for social justice and protecting the environment.”

Lord Prescott, a former union activist and former merchant seaman, died peacefully surrounded by relatives at his care home.

In a statement after his death, his wife Pauline and sons Johnathan and David said it was his “greatest honour” to represent the people of Hull.

They said: “We are deeply saddened to inform you that our beloved husband, father and grandfather, John Prescott, passed away peacefully yesterday at the age of 86.

“He did this surrounded by the love of his family and the jazz music of Marian Montgomery.

“From his time as a waiter on cruise ships to becoming Britain’s longest-serving deputy prime minister, John spent his life trying to improve the lives of others, fighting for social justice and protecting the environment.

“John loved his home in Hull and it was his greatest honor to represent his people in Parliament for 40 years.

“We would like to thank the wonderful NHS doctors and nurses who cared for him after his stroke in 2019, and the dedicated staff at the care home where he died after living with Alzheimer’s.

“In lieu of flowers, if you wish, you can make a donation to Alzheimer’s Research UK.

“As you can imagine, our family needs to process our pain, so we respectfully request time and space to grieve privately.

“Thank you.

“Pauline, Johnathan and David Prescott.”

Who was John Prescott?

Lord Prescott served as deputy leader under Sir Tony and was seen by many as an important link to the party’s traditional working-class values ​​amid its modernization drive.

He was granted the title of nobleman in 2010, but was removed as a member of the Upper House in July after suffering health problems.

He has spoken in parliament only once since suffering a stroke in 2019 and has not voted since February 2023.

Lord Prescott punched a protester who threw an egg at him during his election campaign visit to North Wales in 2001.

Lord Prescott acted as a mediator between Sir Tony and then-Chancellor Gordon Brown for much of his time in office.

He also served as foreign minister for the environment, transport and regions and helped negotiate the international climate change agreement, the Kyoto Protocol.

While a staunch supporter of Sir Tony in office, he later became critical of parts of the legacy left behind by New Labour.

This included condemning Britain’s involvement in the Iraq War.

He also defended Jeremy Corbyn in the face of harsh criticism during his time as party leader.