JOHN Prescott, the former Labour Deputy Prime Minister and one of the most recognisable figures in British politics, has died aged 86. His family announced he passed away peacefully on 20th November at a care home, surrounded by his loved ones, following a battle with Alzheimer’s.
Born in Prestatyn, Wales, on 31 May 1938, John Leslie Prescott was the son of a railwayman. He left school at 15, initially working as a trainee chef before becoming a steward on the Cunard Line. He later transitioned into politics, a career spanning decades and defined by his dedication to social justice, environmental protection, and representing working-class values.
A Life in Service
Lord Prescott served as the Member of Parliament for Kingston upon Hull East for 40 years. His time in politics saw him rise to prominence as a trade union activist, becoming a key figure in New Labour under Sir Tony Blair. He held the position of Deputy Prime Minister from 1997 to 2007, Britain’s longest-serving in the role, and was instrumental in the party’s success during its historic three consecutive general election wins.
His family released a heartfelt statement, saying:
“John spent his life trying to improve the lives of others, fighting for social justice and protecting the environment, doing so from his time as a waiter on the cruise liners to becoming Britain’s longest-serving Deputy Prime Minister. John dearly loved his home of Hull, and representing its people in Parliament for 40 years was his greatest honour.”
The family expressed their gratitude to the NHS staff who cared for him after his stroke in 2019 and the care home team where he lived in his final years. They asked for privacy as they grieve, suggesting donations to Alzheimer’s Research UK in lieu of flowers.
Political Tributes
Lord Prescott was a key figure in bridging Labour’s traditional working-class roots and the party’s modernisation efforts under Sir Tony Blair. The two were famously dubbed “the odd couple” for their contrasting styles, with Prescott often mediating between Blair and then-Chancellor Gordon Brown.
Sir Tony Blair said he was “devastated” by the news, describing Prescott as “one of the most talented people I ever encountered in politics.” He added:
“He was from proud traditional working-class stock yet understood instinctively and completely the aspirations of that class and their desire to better themselves. It is no exaggeration to say the Labour Party could never have won three consecutive full terms without John.”
Former Chancellor Gordon Brown echoed these sentiments, calling Prescott a “working-class hero” and a “legend of the Labour Party.” He praised his ability to connect with people, even while navigating the compromises of government.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer also paid tribute, saying he was “deeply saddened” by Lord Prescott’s death.
A Legacy of Action
During his time in office, Prescott was instrumental in major government initiatives, including negotiating the international Kyoto Protocol on climate change as Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport, and Regions. Former US Vice President Al Gore, who worked alongside him on the protocol in 1997, said:
“I have never worked with anyone in politics – on my side of the pond or his – quite like John Prescott. He possessed an inherent ability to connect with people about the issues that mattered to them – a talent that was second nature to him.”
Prescott’s career was not without its controversies, famously punching a protester who threw an egg at him during an election campaign in 2001. However, his robust defence of his principles and his passionate approach to politics won him admiration from many across the political spectrum.
Later Years
After leaving frontline politics, Prescott was ennobled in 2010 but ceased to be an active member of the House of Lords due to declining health. He became increasingly critical of New Labour’s legacy, particularly its role in the Iraq War, but remained a defender of Labour leaders, including Jeremy Corbyn.
His passing marks the end of a remarkable life rooted in public service and a steadfast commitment to improving the lives of ordinary people. John Prescott will be remembered as a towering figure in British politics, whose contributions left an indelible mark on the Labour Party and the country.
