John Prescott, Britain’s former Deputy Prime Minister and a pivotal figure in reshaping the Labour Party, has passed away at the age of 86, his family announced on Thursday.
“We are deeply saddened to inform you that our beloved husband, father, and grandfather, John Prescott, passed away yesterday (Wednesday) at the age of 86,” the family shared in a heartfelt statement.
A Political Giant
Prescott served as Deputy Prime Minister under Tony Blair from 1997 to 2007, a decade marked by Labour’s historic landslide victory and transformative governance. As a working-class politician with roots as a trade union activist, he embodied the balance between Blair’s centrist policies and Labour’s traditional left-wing values.
Tony Blair, visibly moved, described Prescott as “irreplaceable,” praising his unique ability to keep the Labour government united during its most challenging times.
“There was no one quite like him,” Blair remarked.
A Champion for Climate Action
Prescott was also a trailblazer in global climate diplomacy. He spearheaded the UK’s negotiations for the groundbreaking 1997 Kyoto Protocol, a landmark agreement in the fight against climate change.
Former US Vice President Al Gore paid tribute, calling Prescott a “dear friend” and an “unwavering champion of climate action.”
“He fought tirelessly to negotiate the Kyoto Protocol and remained a steadfast advocate for climate action for decades,” Gore said.
Tributes from Political Figures
Keir Starmer, the current Labour leader, hailed Prescott as a “true giant of the Labour movement,” commending his efforts to tackle regional inequality and champion environmental policies.
Gordon Brown, Blair’s successor, credited Prescott with elevating environmental issues in government.
“He was probably the first minister to prioritize the environment, and the Kyoto agreement is a testament to his dedication,” Brown noted.
A Life of Service
Prescott, a former merchant seaman, represented Hull in Parliament for 40 years. Known for his fiery personality and plain-speaking style, he famously punched a protester who threw an egg at him during a campaign stop.
After leaving Parliament, Prescott was appointed to the House of Lords but stepped back in recent years due to his declining health, including a stroke in 2019 and Alzheimer’s disease. He passed away peacefully in a care home surrounded by his family and jazz music, his wife Pauline revealed.
John Prescott leaves behind a legacy of passionate public service, environmental advocacy, and unwavering dedication to Labour values.
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