“After the 1997 General Election, I was privileged to serve in John Prescott’s office during his first two years as Deputy Prime Minister (or ‘DPM’, as we used to call him). He had a huge Department and big ambitions to improve the transport system, stimulate economic growth and take a leading role on international climate negotiations.
“As a former seafarer, he also cared deeply about safety at sea and the maritime industry. One of the very first things he did in office was to honour a promise to the families of those 51 people who had tragically lost their lives in the 1989 Marchioness disaster, by setting up a public inquiry. I remember so clearly the day when representatives of the families came into the office to meet ‘DPM’, and the huge emotion of it, as they had campaigned over many years for a full inquiry.
“Recommendations made by the Thames Safety Inquiry, chaired by Lord Justice Clarke, led to many safety improvements on the Thames, which are still in place today. This is one of John Prescott’s legacies, which I believe deserves more recognition.
“On a personal level, I was very sad to hear the news of his death last week. I am still in touch with former colleagues in the Private Office and our WhatsApp group has recently been alive with warm memories and funny stories - there was never a dull moment! John Prescott was a formidable political operator, a great character and inspired huge loyalty in those who worked for him."
.png?upscale=true&height=50&upscale=true&name=Threads_(app).png){kind=small}