Former Deputy Prime Minister, John Prescott, remembered for his pivotal role in New Labour’s success and his unorthodox political style

John Prescott, the former Labour Deputy Prime Minister, has passed away at the age of 86. His family confirmed that he died peacefully on Wednesday at his care home, where he had been living with Alzheimer’s disease. In a fitting final moment, Prescott’s family said he was surrounded by the soothing sounds of jazz music as he passed.

Tributes have poured in from across the political spectrum, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer calling him a “true giant” of the Labour movement. Starmer described Prescott as “a one-off,” noting his unique contribution to British politics. Starmer’s words echoed the sentiments of many, as Prescott was a significant figure in the Labour Party’s resurgence during the 1990s, playing an essential role in Tony Blair’s New Labour project.

Former Prime Minister Tony Blair, who worked alongside Prescott for a decade in government, expressed his devastation upon hearing the news of his colleague’s passing. Blair recalled Prescott’s uncompromising character and his memorable actions, including the notorious moment when he punched an individual during the 2001 election campaign, reflecting the no-nonsense, “old-school” political style that Prescott was known for. Blair remarked, “There was no one quite like him in British politics.”

Prescott’s political career spanned nearly 40 years, representing Kingston upon Hull East in Parliament and serving in Blair’s government from 1997 to 2007. Known for his trade union roots, Prescott was a staunch advocate for the working class and those less fortunate, helping to bridge the gap between Labour’s traditional base and its modern, more centrist approach under Blair. His down-to-earth, often blunt style earned him respect from Labour’s grassroots and the public alike.

Legacy of Prescott
In his obituary, Prescott was remembered as a key figure in the Labour Party’s revival in the 1990s. A political bruiser, he fought for the working class while also playing a vital role in Labour’s pivot towards the centre. According to Chris Mason, the BBC’s political editor, Prescott’s legacy lives on in the current leadership of Labour, particularly with Angela Rayner, who has become the modern-day Deputy Prime Minister and draws from Prescott’s own political roots.

Prescott’s influence extended beyond Westminster. His tenacity and forthrightness helped define an era of British politics, while his personal style and commitment to his principles endeared him to millions. In a time when political norms were changing, Prescott’s legacy as a Labour heavyweight remains undeniable.

As the political world remembers Lord John Prescott, his contributions to the Labour movement and his role in shaping the direction of modern Britain will undoubtedly continue to be felt for years to come.