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Former UK Deputy PM John Prescott Dies at 86 After Alzheimer's Battle; Tony Blair Pays Tribute

Nov 21, 2024, 06:30 AM

Former UK Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott has died at the age of 86. Born in North Wales, Prescott passed away peacefully at his care home, surrounded by his family and to the sound of jazz music. He had been living with Alzheimer's disease in recent years. Serving as Deputy Prime Minister under Tony Blair from 1997 to 2007, Prescott was a prominent figure in the Labour Party and played a crucial role in the modernization of the party during the New Labour era. Tony Blair paid tribute, stating, "I am devastated by John’s passing. He was one of the most talented people I ever encountered in politics." Current Prime Minister Keir Starmer called him "a giant of the Labour movement." Prescott served as the MP for Kingston upon Hull East for nearly 40 years and was known for his straight-talking and sometimes controversial style. He was instrumental in settling the claims for the MV Derbyshire families, providing compensation to over 10,000 families.