Labour candidates mourn Michael Foot
By Rachel Charman
Labour’s Prospective Parliamentary Candidates Julian Ware-Lane (Castlepoint) and Kevin Bonavia (Southend East) have commented on the death of Michael Foot.
Mr Foot, the Labour leader who lost the 1983 general election against Margaret Thatcher’s Conservative party, died today aged 96.
Mr Foot’s political career spanned almost five decades. He was a Labour MP from 1945 to 1955, and then from 1960 to 1992. He was also leader of the opposition from 1980 until 1983.
Mr Ware-Lane said “This is a moment of personal sadness; progressive politics has lost a great champion.
“Michael Foot was a large figure in my early political education. I liked his style, where policies more than personalities mattered. He was a principled man.
“Rest in peace seems more than appropriate for a man of peace, although one should remember the courage of this man who volunteered in the Second World War, despite being unwell and therefore rejected for service.”
Mr Bonavia said:
“Michael Foot was a great parliamentarian; passionate in his determination to fight poverty but also courteous and good humoured whenever he encountered opposition.
“He might be most famous as Leader of the Labour Party when it faced its most difficult period since the War, but he should be remembered for much more than that.
“He was also a fine historian and a lifelong active supporter of Plymouth Argyle.
“I recall my only encounter with him a few years ago, when he spoke at an event to commemorate the life of one of his (and my) heroes, Nye Bevan, the founder of our NHS.
“He was both moving and very funny.
“A decent man and a true example to anyone who wants to make a difference through politics.”
