Dame Tessa Jowell has been described as an “inspirational” politician with “unflinching tenacity” as friends and colleagues shared heartfelt tributes following her death at the age of 70. The former cabinet minister died at home on Saturday evening after being diagnosed with a brain tumour last year. Former prime minister Tony Blair, in whose Cabinet Dame Tessa served as culture secretary, said she would be remembered for being “the most wise of counsellors, the most loyal and supportive of colleagues, and the best of friends”. I will miss her enormously.”Former acting Labour leader Harriet Harman said Dame Tessa was “no softie”, adding: “She was clever and tough.”Harriet Harman (left) with Dame Tessa Jowell (Stefan Rousseau/PA)“Tessa was my MP neighbour for 23 years, always courteous and polite with local agencies, hospitals and schools. Commons Speaker John Bercow paid tribute to Dame Tessa Jowell (PA)Councillor Georgia Gould, leader of Camden Council, said her optimism and courage were a “massive inspiration” to many.

Source: Daily Mail May 13, 2018 07:02 UTC