John Prescott, the former UK Deputy Prime Minister, has died at the age of 86. A former merchant seaman who rose to prominence in British politics, Prescott passed away peacefully in a care home on Wednesday, surrounded by his loved ones.
His family confirmed the news on Thursday, noting that Prescott had been living with Alzheimer’s disease in his final years.
Known for his dedication to social justice and environmental protection, Prescott spent his life striving to improve the lives of others.
He was a staunch advocate for working-class rights and a prominent figure in Tony Blair’s Labour government from 1997 to 2007.
Blair, who became Prime Minister in 1997, described Prescott as one of the most committed, talented, and loyal individuals he had ever encountered in politics.
“He was one of the most talented people I ever encountered in politics, one of the most committed and loyal, and definitely the most unusual,” Blair added, reflecting on Prescott’s distinctive political style.
Prescott, a former amateur boxer, was known for his strong personality, bringing grit, humour, and authenticity to the Labour Party during his tenure.
One of the most memorable moments in Prescott’s political career occurred during the 2001 general election, when he punched an individual who threw an egg at him.
The incident generated a brief media uproar, but Blair’s supportive response – “John is John” – helped solidify Prescott’s reputation as a down-to-earth, working-class figure, beloved for his straightforward approach.
Entering politics through the trade union movement, Prescott embodied the working-class spirit that was increasingly rare in British politics, particularly as Tony Blair’s “New Labour” redefined the party’s image. Prescott’s fondness for luxury was well-known; he was nicknamed “Two Jags” by the press due to his ownership of two Jaguar cars.
Prescott was also known for his environmental work. One of his proudest achievements was his role in the 1997 Kyoto Protocol climate change agreement. He worked closely with US Vice President Al Gore on the deal, which remains a landmark in global climate policy.
Gore paid tribute to Prescott’s commitment to tackling the climate crisis, stating that Prescott “fought like hell” to negotiate the Kyoto Protocol and was a passionate advocate for climate action.
Representing his home city of Hull for four decades, Prescott continued to serve in public office after Labour lost power in 2010, joining the House of Lords.
Former Labour Prime Minister Gordon Brown hailed Prescott as a true working-class hero, emphasising his belief in providing everyone, not just the privileged, with access to the good things in life.
Prescott is survived by his wife, Pauline, and sons Johnathan and David. His death marks the end of an era for a politician who played a pivotal role in shaping modern British politics.
