Former British deputy prime minister John Prescott has passed away at the age of 86, his family announced. He died peacefully at his care home surrounded by relatives, after battling Alzheimer’s. Prescott, a key figure in Tony Blair’s New Labour project, served as an MP for Kingston upon Hull for four decades before being ennobled in 2010. His family described him as someone who dedicated his life to improving the lives of others, fighting for social justice, and protecting the environment.
Prescott was known for his role as Labour’s longest-serving deputy prime minister, a mediator between Blair and Gordon Brown. While he had a reputation for being short-tempered, he was also praised for his ability to troubleshoot and solve problems. Prescott played a crucial role in negotiating the Kyoto Protocol on climate change and was a strong defender of Jeremy Corbyn’s leadership.
Born in Wales to a railwayman, Prescott left school at 15 to work as a trainee chef and later on a cruise liner before entering politics. In a private letter, Blair praised Prescott’s unique blend of charm and brutality, which kept the government together and allowed them to get things done. Prescott’s family asked for privacy to mourn, suggesting donations to Alzheimer’s Research UK in lieu of flowers.
Prescott’s passing marks the end of a political era in British history, with tributes pouring in from across the political spectrum for his dedication to public service and tireless work for the betterment of society.
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