POLITICIANS from both Labour and the Conservative Party in Worcester have paid tribute to Labour’s Birmingham Erdington MP Jack Dromey who has died suddenly at the age of 73.
The father-of-three, who was married to former Labour deputy leader and current Mother of the House of Commons Harriet Harman, was found by West Midlands Police at his constituency flat on Friday lunchtime (January 7)
After forcing their way into the flat, police found Mr Dromey. His death is not being treated as suspicious by police and it’s understood he died from natural causes.
Mr Dromey’s death was revealed by his son Joe on Twitter
Both Worcester’s current Conservative MP Robin Walker and his Labour predecessor Mike Foster have paid their respects to the long-time trade unionist.
“Shocked and deeply saddened. Jack was a one off. Anyone who campaigned with him will vouch for that,” Mr Foster wrote.
“Without doubt one of the good guys. My thoughts are with Harriet, his family and those who worked so closely with him. RIP Jack.
Mr Walker said: “Very sad to hear the news about Jack Dromey, a respected colleague and Midlands MP who always seemed to have a sense of humour. Thoughts are with his family.”
Joy Squires, Labour candidate for Worcester at the 2015 and 2017 General Elections described his death as ‘such sad news’.
“Jack was a great support to me in my parliamentary campaigns and made such an impact with those he met. Condolences to Harriet and all his family,” she said.
Coun Marc Bayliss, the Conservative leader of Worcester City Council, also paid tribute to Mr Dromey following the news of his death.
“I met Jack Dromey several times and always found him to be a thoroughly decent guy. Condolences to his family and friends.”
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said: “The proud son of Irish parents, Jack Dromey dedicated his life to standing up for working people through the Labour movement, becoming deputy general secretary of the UK’s largest trade union and then a Labour MP.
“From supporting the strike at the Grunwick film processing laboratory, when he met Harriet, through to being elected to represent Birmingham Erdington in 2010, Jack lived his commitment to social justice every day.
“Jack was recognised for his determination to stand up for his constituents and he was highly respected and warmly regarded across Parliament.
“My thoughts and those of the whole Labour movement are with Harriet, their children and all those who knew and loved Jack.”
