FORMER UK Government minister and Conservative MP James Brokenshire, who had been suffering from lung cancer, has died aged 53, his family has said in a statement.
The MP for Old Bexley and Sidcup died in hospital with family by his side, his loved ones said.
The family said James had been in hospital since Sunday, when his condition rapidly deteriorated.
“James was not only a brilliant Government minister as both Security and Immigration Minister at the Home Office and Secretary of State at the Northern Ireland Office and Ministry for Housing, Communities & Local Government, but a dedicated constituency MP, first for Hornchurch from 2005 to 2010, and then for Old Bexley & Sidcup for the past 11 years," they wrote.
“But most importantly, he was a loving father to his three children, a devoted husband to Cathy and a faithful friend to so many.
“We would like to thank all the NHS staff, particularly those at Guy’s & St Thomas’ in London, who cared for James with such warmth, diligence and professionalism over the past three-and-a-half years.
“We would also ask that our privacy as a family is respected at this time.”
Tributes began coming in for the former minister shortly after the announcement.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak wrote on Twitter: “James Brokenshire was a man of public service and the highest integrity. He was a valued friend and colleague and will be deeply missed.
“My thoughts are with his family on this incredibly sad day.”
Labour's deputy leader Angela Rayner tweeted: “Sending my deepest condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of James Brokenshire.
“He has been taken far too young, a real tragedy. James was unfailingly professional and kind and it was clear that he cared deeply about his work and public service. Rest in peace James.”
SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford said: "My thoughts and deepest condolences are with James Brokenshire's family, friends and colleagues on the devastating news of his death. James was well-liked across parties and respected as a sincere and hard-working public servant."
Pete Wishart, the SNP's longest serving MP, wrote: "So sad. James was someone we all liked and respected across the House. I think we all thought he would beat it and be back."
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