David Cameron pays tribute to Stuart Bell MP

By Tim Montgomerie
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Yesterday it was announced that the Labour MP Stuart Bell died.

The Prime Minister issued this statement:

"Sir Stuart was one of Parliament's great characters. Throughout his three decades in the House of Commons, he always stood up for those issues he cared most deeply about. A firm advocate of church matters as Second Church Estates Commissioner for thirteen years, and a member of the House of Commons Commission over a very challenging decade, he will be remembered for his kindness and his courtesy towards Parliamentary colleagues. My thoughts go out to Stuart's wife, Margaret, and his family at this very sad time."

He was re-elected to his Middlesborough seat at the last election with a majority of 8,689 over the second-placed Liberal Democrats.

Michael Crick Tweeted that Mr Bell's death completes a tragic run for the Labour Party: