November 21st 2024.
The news of former deputy prime minister John Prescott's passing has saddened the nation, as his family announced that he died peacefully at the age of 86 after a long battle with Alzheimer's. His loved ones shared that he dedicated his life to making the world a better place, fighting for social justice and environmental protection.
John, a former trade union activist and merchant seaman, passed away peacefully at his care home, surrounded by his family. He was a beloved figure in the Labour party, known for his traditional values and strong support for Sir Tony Blair's New Labour project. In 2010, he was ennobled and became Baron Prescott of Kingston upon Hull, after serving as an MP for his city for over four decades.
His wife Pauline and sons Johnathan and David released a statement expressing their deep sorrow over his passing. They shared that representing the people of Hull in Parliament was John's greatest honor and that they are grateful for the amazing care he received from the NHS and the staff at the care home during his battle with Alzheimer's. In lieu of flowers, they requested donations to Alzheimer's Research UK and asked for privacy as they mourn their loss.
Lord Prescott's health had been declining, and he stepped down from the House of Lords in July. He had only spoken once in the chamber since suffering a stroke in 2019 and had not voted since February 2023. Throughout his 50-year career in politics, he served as deputy prime minister for 10 years, acting as a mediator between Sir Tony Blair and Chancellor Gordon Brown. He also played a crucial role in negotiating the Kyoto Protocol on climate change.
Although known for his short temper, Lord Prescott was a loyal supporter of Sir Tony during his time in office. However, he was critical of some of New Labour's policies, most notably denouncing their involvement in the Iraq War. He remained a staunch defender of the party, even during Jeremy Corbyn's leadership, facing harsh criticism.
Born in Wales in 1938, John left school at the age of 15 to work as a chef and later as a steward on the Cunard Line before entering politics. In a private letter, Sir Tony praised his former deputy's ability to smooth out problems, sort out colleagues, and troubleshoot issues, calling it an integral part of getting things done. He also fondly remembered the unique blend of charm and brutality that made working with John both effective and enjoyable. The nation mourns the loss of a dedicated public servant who left a lasting impact on the country.
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