BREAKING: Rochdale MP Tony Lloyd, dies aged 73

Wednesday, 17 January 2024 16:10

By Adam Clark

Sir Tony Lloyd, Labour MP for Rochdale has died aged 73.

A statement from his family on Wednesday afternoon confirmed the news.

Mr Lloyd announced last week that he had left hospital following extended treatment for a form of blood cancer which has been controlled by chemotherapy.

This transformed into an aggressive and untreatable form of leukaemia.

A statement from the family of Tony Lloyd read: "We are absolutely devastated to announce the death of Sir Tony Lloyd MP, our beloved Joe', 'Dad' and 'Grandad'. He died peacefully this morning surrounded by his family, as was his wish.

"He was working until a few days before his death as his passion was helping others. He devoted his life to serving and making a difference to the lives of those he met including his constituents, colleagues, friends, and family.

"We would like to thank all the dedicated doctors, nurses, healthcare assistants and other hospital staff who have provided him with care, as well as the blood and platelet donors who gave him an extra four years of life."

"Sir Anthony Joseph Lloyd MP 1950-2024, a husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. A life well lived. May he rest in peace."

Bury South MP, Christian Wakeford said: "Desperately sad news. Tony was one of the nicest men in politics and a shining light of public service in Greater Manchester across many decades.

"He will be sadly missed by us all."

Labour leader, Sir Keir Starmer has paid tribute describing the news as a "terrible loss"

The death of Sir Tony Lloyd today is a terrible loss.

We will remember his deep commitment to Labour values and his decency.

May he rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/jgcAEghM2F
— Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) January 17, 2024

Lloyd was first elected to Parliament as MP for Stretford in 1983, following four years as a Trafford councillor.

In 1997 he then was elected to the seat of Manchester Central for which he held until 2012 when he stepped down to stand in the elections for Greater Manchester's Police & Crime Commissioner, a role he held for three years before becoming interim Mayor of Greater Manchester.

He became the MP for Rochdale in 2017, until his death. A by-election will now be held.

More to follow...