Tributes pour in for Erdington Labour MP Jack Dromey who died suddenly

Tributes continue to pour in for Shadow Minister Jack Dromey who died suddenly in his flat in Erdington today (Friday January 7).

His family issued a statement announcing his sudden death.

The Labour MP, aged 73, was married to former Labour Party Deputy leader Harriet Harman. It is understood that he died from natural causes.

The family statement said: “Jack Dromey MP died suddenly this morning aged 73 in his flat in Erdington.

“He had been a dedicated Member of Parliament for Birmingham Erdington since 2010.

“He was a much loved husband, father and grandfather, and he will be greatly missed.”

On Thursday, Mr Dromey contributed to a Westminster Hall debate on the Afghan citizens resettlement scheme in his role as shadow Home Office minister, to which he was appointed last month.

His son Joe Dromey, an ex councillor, tweeted about his sad loss saying how much he missed his dad.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer was among the first to pay tribute to Mr Dromey

He said: “The proud son of Irish parents, Jack Dromey dedicated his life to standing up for working people through the Labour movement, becoming deputy general secretary of the UK’s largest trade union and then a Labour MP.

“From supporting the strike at the Grunwick film processing laboratory, when he met Harriet, through to being elected to represent Birmingham Erdington in 2010, Jack lived his commitment to social justice every day.

“Jack was recognised for his determination to stand up for his constituents and he was highly respected and warmly regarded across Parliament.

“My thoughts and those of the whole Labour movement are with Harriet, their children and all those who knew and loved Jack.”

Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle said: “We are all in disbelief that the life-force that was Jack Dromey has died – this is another sad day for the House and a bad start to the year.”

Cllr Ian Ward, leader of Birmingham City Council said: “Absolutely devastated at the death of my friend and colleague Jack Dromey. A true Labour man who served the people of Erdington with passion and dedication, Jack devoted his life to the service of others. He will be sorely missed and my thoughts are with his family at this time.”

Fellow Birmingham Labour MPs also paid tribute.

Hodge Hill MP Liam Byrne said: “Stunned and in shock. It was a privilege of my life to work hand in glove with Jack in the West Midlands for the last decade and he chaired my Mayoral campaign brilliantly.

“We’ve lost a legend. But his legend will live on. In the countless he changed for the better. Heartbroken.

Ladywood MP Shabana Mahmood said: “To say I’m devastated doesn’t quite seem enough. Jack was always such a good friend and supportive colleague to me. An inspiring force of nature serving the people of Erdington and our city. A huge loss. All love to Harriet and his family.”

Edgbaston MP Preet Gill said: “Thoughts are with you @Joe_Dromey and the family. This is a huge loss for us all. Jack, was a great friend to me and I will miss him very Much.

Local Conservative MP Gary Sambrook also paid tribute saying: “Very sorry to see Jack Dromey has passed away. I have known him for many years and he was a dedicated MP and good man. RIP Jack.”

Reacting to the death of Jack Dromey MP, Lee Barron, TUC Midlands Regional Secretary, said: “Both myself personally and all unions from across our region are shocked and devastated by the appalling news of Jack’s untimely passing.

“Jack was a towering figure who spent a lifetime campaigning for social justice, dignity and the advancement of working people.  A tireless trade unionist and politician, Jack had ferocious enthusiasm and motivation to stand up and give a voice to the voiceless. Jack’s legacy is immense.

“Since being elected to Erdington in 2010 Jack’s contribution to Birmingham has been second to none. Constantly pushing us all to be ambitious for the city, passionate in his support for Erdington and the communities of our city, Jack truly was a force of nature.

“Jack instinctively understood the dignity of labour. He understood that good work was a route out of poverty, and understood that working people needed to stand together in trade unions to secure advancement.

“Tonight we are filled with sadness and mourn the passing of a real trade union and Labour giant. Our thoughts, first and foremost, are with his family. Rest in peace Jack – our friend, colleague and comrade.”

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