More than 300 family members, friends, and colleagues have been invited to the service for John Prescott at Hull Minster.
Sir Keir Starmer has paid tribute to John Prescott, praising his “tenacity and vision” as well as his “fighting spirit” ahead of the former deputy prime minister’s funeral.
The service, set to take place at Hull Minster, will see over 300 attendees, including senior figures from past and present Labour governments. Lord Prescott, who served as deputy prime minister under Sir Tony Blair from 1997 to 2007, passed away on 20th November last year at the age of 86. He had been living in a nursing home following a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s.
The service will be led by the Rev Canon Dominic Black, featuring a performance from the Choral-Hull children’s choir, comprising pupils from across the city. In place of floral tributes, the Prescott family has requested donations to Alzheimer’s Research UK, reflecting his battle with the disease.
A legacy of public service
Sir Keir Starmer hailed Lord Prescott as a “man who stood up for working people” and whose impact on British politics remains profound.
“John Prescott’s funeral is a moment to reflect on his legacy alongside those who loved him most,” the Prime Minister said.
“Since his death, I have been moved to hear countless people share their memories of John – tales of characteristic generosity, humour, and charisma.
“Amongst the public, it’s clear that he had legendary status. He was held in huge affection by people across the country who admired his straightforward authenticity and knew that he would always have their back.”
Sir Keir went on to emphasise Lord Prescott’s contributions to Labour’s achievements, crediting him with helping to drive early action on climate change, reducing regional inequality, introducing the minimum wage, and transforming public transport.
“His place in our history is assured – not, as he expected, for that one famous moment, but for his fighting spirit across an entire lifetime of service,” he added, referring to the 2001 election campaign incident where Lord Prescott punched a protester who had thrown an egg at him.
“He will be remembered as a man who stood up for working people, fought for what he believed in, and changed our nation for the better.
“We have his tenacity and vision to thank for so many of the policies that have shaped modern Britain.
“This is a day to give thanks for a remarkable life well lived. I know many people will be raising a glass to John today.”
A political heavyweight
A former trade union activist and merchant seaman, Lord Prescott served as the MP for Hull East for 40 years before being elevated to the House of Lords in 2010. His political career was defined by his passionate advocacy for working-class communities and his role in Labour’s landslide victory in 1997.
As deputy prime minister, Lord Prescott was responsible for key portfolios, including the environment, transport, and regional development. He played a crucial role in negotiating the international Kyoto Protocol on climate change and was a key figure in Labour’s push for devolution and urban regeneration.
His tenure also saw him act as a bridge between Sir Tony Blair and then-chancellor Gordon Brown, helping to manage tensions within the Labour leadership.
Despite his formidable reputation in the Commons and Whitehall, Lord Prescott remained a figure of public affection, known for his plain-speaking style and fierce loyalty to the Labour cause.
Tributes from political leaders
Sir Tony Blair, who worked closely with Lord Prescott for over a decade, described him in November as “one of the most talented people I ever encountered in politics” and “one of the most committed and loyal, and definitely the most unusual.”
Gordon Brown, who succeeded Sir Tony as Prime Minister, said that Lord Prescott was “key to holding the ring and keeping things together during difficult times such as over Iraq.”
Many Labour MPs and trade union leaders have also paid their respects, highlighting his deep connection to the party’s grassroots and his relentless efforts to improve the lives of working people.
A lasting influence
Lord Prescott’s funeral marks the passing of a political giant whose influence spanned decades. While his style may have been unconventional at times, few doubted his commitment to the causes he championed.
As mourners gather in Hull Minster today, they will not only remember a man who shaped modern Britain but also celebrate a legacy of service, determination, and an unwavering belief in the power of politics to bring about change.
