Former Home Secretary Leon Brittan dies of cancer
Lord Brittan of Spennithorne, 75, passed away at his home in London last week after battling with cancer for some time.
Lord Brittan of Spennithorne, 75, passed away at his home in London last week after battling with cancer for some time.
As well as Home Secretary (1983 to 1985), Lord Brittan served as Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, Chief Secretary to the Treasury and as a Home Office Minister. He was also Vice-President of the European Commission from March to September 1999.
In a statement, his family said: We salute his extraordinary commitment to British public life as a Member of Parliament, Minister, Cabinet Minister, European Commissioner and peer together with a distinguished career in law, and latterly in business.
Leader of the House of Lords, Baroness Stowell, said Lord Brittans long and illustrious career in law, politics and business reflected his acclaimed intellect and dedication to everything he believed in.
His many friends in this House will remember his generosity and kindness. My thoughts are with his family, especially his wife, Diana, she said.
Home Secretary Theresa May said: I was sorry to learn of the sad death of Lord Brittan, and send my condolences to his family at this difficult time.
Recently, Lord Brittan was caught in the controversy over allegations of a cover-up regarding the existence of a paedophile ring in Westminster in the 1980s. He denied ignoring information given to him about the scandal.