John Prescott, Britain’s former deputy prime minister and a key figure in Tony Blair’s Labour government, has passed away at the age of 86, his family announced on Thursday. Prescott, who served as Blair’s deputy from 1997 to 2007, played a pivotal role in modernizing the Labour Party and shaping UK politics during his tenure.

In a statement, his family said, “We are deeply saddened to inform you that our beloved husband, father, and grandfather, John Prescott, passed away yesterday (Wednesday) at the age of 86.”

Tony Blair, who worked closely with Prescott to transform Labour into a centrist political force, expressed his grief, calling the news “devastating.” Speaking to the BBC, Blair said, “There was no one quite like him in British politics.”

Prescott’s political legacy extended beyond the domestic stage. As a staunch advocate for environmental protection, he was instrumental in representing Britain during negotiations for the landmark 1997 Kyoto Protocol on climate change. Former US Vice President Al Gore hailed Prescott as a “dear friend” and a trailblazer in climate action.

“He fought like hell to negotiate the Kyoto Protocol and was an unwavering champion of climate action for decades to come,” Gore said in a statement. “He possessed an inherent ability to connect with people about the issues that mattered to them — a talent that others spend years studying and cultivating, but that was second nature.”

Prescott was a towering figure in the Labour movement, known for his working-class roots and fiery oratory. Gordon Brown, Blair’s successor as prime minister, described Prescott as a “colossus” of British politics. He credited him with being one of the first ministers to emphasize the importance of environmental issues, saying, “The 1997 Kyoto agreement had to be attributed to John’s hard work with Al Gore.”

Current Labour leader and Prime Minister Keir Starmer paid tribute to Prescott, calling him “a true giant of the Labour movement.” Starmer added, “He will be remembered not only for his contributions to the Labour Party but for his dedication to the people of Britain and his relentless fight for social justice.”

Prescott’s death marks the end of an era in British politics. Known for his unshakable commitment to Labour values and his ability to connect with ordinary citizens, he leaves behind a legacy of transformative politics and environmental advocacy.