Politics

Full text: Jeremy Corbyn's statement on the death of Denis Healey

October 03, 2015
Denis Healey in the Treasury as Chancellor. © PA. See PA Story ECONOMY Budget
Denis Healey in the Treasury as Chancellor. © PA. See PA Story ECONOMY Budget
Denis Healey, a "giant" of postwar Labour politics and a former Chancellor and Defence Secretary, has died aged 98. Prominent political figures from across the parties have queued up to pay tribute to him. Below is the full text of current Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn and former leader Neil Kinnock's statements. 

Jeremy Corbyn said:

“Denis Healey was a giant of the Labour Party whose record of service to his party and his country stands as his testament.

He distinguished himself with his military service during the Second World War and continued that commitment to the British people as a Labour politician at the highest levels of government. His wit and personality transcended politics itself, making him one of the most recognisable politicians of his era.

Speaking personally, we had many interesting conversations when I was first elected to Parliament in 1983 and I found him a decent and very knowledgeable man who I enjoyed engaging with, particularly in his work as Shadow Foreign Secretary.

Labour is built on people with the commitment of those who devote their lives to public service, as Denis Healey did.

The thoughts of everyone in the Labour Party are with his family at this time.”

Neil Kinnock said:

'Denis had high intellect, great personal courage, charm and a sense of humour which was rumbustious and, when needed, lethal.  His "hinterland", as he called it, was culturally broad and creative.  It reflected his abiding conviction that everyone should have access to "the best that beauty has to offer".

He didn't suffer fools gladly or, indeed, at all. That partly explains why he was never Leader of the Party despite having rich political talent. He was brilliant in the Commons, an ebullient campaigner in the country, and his piano-thumping performances in by-election singsongs were—like him—loud, lively, and uplifting.

Denis' love for Edna, his partner in every sense, was strong and lifelong, his commitment to Labour was total, his character was unforgettable.  To know Denis Healey was to enjoy him.

Glenys and I offer our deepest sympathy to his children to whom—as they know—he was completely devoted.'