UK

James Brokenshire dies at 53

 Former Secretary of State James Brokenshire
Former Secretary of State James Brokenshire Former Secretary of State James Brokenshire

Former Secretary of State James Brokenshire has died aged 53, three years after a lung cancer diagnosis.

Mr Brokenshire, the Conservative MP for Old Bexley and Sidcup, died yesterday evening with his family at his bedside, and had been in hospital since Sunday.

In September, the father of three confirmed his lung cancer had "progressed" and he was starting a new line of treatment.

A family statement said his condition had rapidly deteriorated. He had been diagnosed with lung cancer in 2018.

The statement said: "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.

"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."

Mr Brokenshire resigned as security minister in July after telling Boris Johnson that his recovery from lung cancer surgery in February was taking "longer than expected".

Mr Johnson paid tribute to MrBrokenshire as the “nicest, kindest and most unassuming of politicians”.

The Britsh prime minister said he was “desperately sad” to hear the news of his death.

Mr Johnson said on Twitter: “He served with particular distinction in the Home Office and as Security Minister. If the government needed something done well and speedily – and sensibly explained – James was the man to do it.

“I worked with him for many years in London and I know how much he cared for the interests of his Bexley constituents.

“His fight against cancer was heroic, and it is a measure of his resolve that he came back from a first bout with the disease to serve in government again. He will be missed by all who knew him. Our thoughts are with Cathy and his family.”

Northern Ireland minister Conor Burns tweeted: "Deeply cruel news about the death of James Brokenshire. Unfailingly kind and courteous.

"I always recall being in a selection final with him when he was seeking a new seat and him helping me relax. He did every job well and was respected in Northern Ireland. RIP"

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 leader Sir Keir Starmer tweeted: "James Brokenshire was a thoroughly decent man, dedicated and effective in all briefs he held.

"He fought his illness with dignity and bravery. I'm incredibly sad to learn of his death and send my condolences to his wife and children."

Labour 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."