Labour MP loses fight against cancer

Labour MP for Brent East, Paul Daisley, has died today having lost his battle against colon cancer.

Mr Daisley, 45, who had been married to wife Lesley since 1984, was elected to Brent East with a majority of 13,074 at the last general election in 2001.

A Labour spokesperson said that Mr Daisley had shown extraordinary courage, and continued to work hard on behalf of his constituents throughout his illness.

Leading members of the Labour Party also paid tribute to Mr Daisley.

The Prime Minister, and leader of the Labour Party, Tony Blair said: "The whole Labour Party is deeply saddened at the tragic news of Paul's death.

"He had only a short time as an MP and could, I am sure, have gone on to have achieved a great deal in politics. He was deeply committed to the people of Brent and worked tirelessly for them, even in the face of serious illness. Our thoughts are with Lesley and his family."

Labour Party Chair and Minister without Portfolio, Ian McCartney, said that Mr Daisley was a "strong champion for the people of Brent".

"He was MP for Brent East for all too short a time but had already proved himself to be a powerful advocate for his constituents," he said.

"His fight against cancer was typified by the brave maiden speech he made last year. To lose someone of Paul's potential so young is a tragedy.

"The party has lost one of its own today and our thoughts go out to Lesley and all his family."

David Triesman, Labour Party General Secretary, paid tribute to Mr Daisley as an "accomplished politician, with a promising political career".

He added: "In that brief time he had established a reputation as an active and dedicated MP. Paul had been battling cancer with great bravery for some time. Throughout his illness, he continued to work tirelessly on behalf of his constituents.

"This is a great loss. Paul will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him across the Labour Party and across his constituency."

A date for the by-election will be announced shortly.

(GMcG)