Former deputy prime minister John Prescott passed away at the age of 86 after battling Alzheimer’s, his family announced. The Labour veteran was a key figure in Sir Tony Blair’s New Labour project and served as deputy prime minister for a decade starting in 1997. Known for his fiery temperament, he played a crucial role in mediating between Sir Tony and then-chancellor Gordon Brown.
During his parliamentary career spanning 50 years, Lord Prescott represented Kingston upon Hull East and made headlines in 2001 when he punched a protester who threw an egg at him during an election campaign in North Wales. Despite this incident, his dedication to social justice and environmental protection was widely recognized.
In addition to his political accomplishments, Lord Prescott was known for his efforts to push through the Kyoto climate change deal in the UK. This commitment earned him the nickname “two Jags” due to his use of two Jaguar cars for short journeys while advocating for reduced vehicle usage.
Born in Wales to a railway worker, Lord Prescott rose from humble beginnings to become one of the Labour Party’s most prominent figures. He remained a steadfast ally of Sir Tony, although he later criticized certain aspects of New Labour’s legacy, including the decision to invade Iraq.
Tributes poured in from political figures across party lines, acknowledging Lord Prescott’s role as a unifying force within the Labour Party. Former prime minister Gordon Brown described him as a working-class hero, while Sir Keir Starmer hailed him as a true giant of the Labour movement.
Former Home Secretary Alan Johnson praised Lord Prescott for his ability to find compromise and make deals, highlighting his skill in bridging political divides. Even former opponents, like Tory grandee Michael Heseltine, recognized his dedication to improving the lives of the people.
Lord Prescott’s family expressed their sorrow at his passing, emphasizing his lifelong commitment to fighting for social justice and protecting the environment. They described his years serving the people of Hull as his greatest honor, reflecting on his journey from a waiter on cruise liners to becoming Britain’s longest-serving deputy prime minister.
In his final years, Lord Prescott faced health challenges, leading him to step down from the House of Lords in July. Despite his declining health, his legacy as a passionate advocate for social justice and environmental causes will endure in the hearts of those who knew him.
