Former Housing Secretary James Brokenshire dies aged 53
He was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2018
Last updated 8th Oct 2021
MP James Brokenshire, who was born in Southend, has died after being diagnosed with lung cancer in 2018.
The former Housing Minister's family announced the news that he had died yesterday (7 October) aged 53.
He was MP for Hornchurch between 2005 to 2010, and had represented Old Bexley & Sidcup for the past 11 years.
In a statement, James Brokenshire’s family said: “It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of James Brokenshire MP at the age of 53.
“James died peacefully at Darent Valley Hospital yesterday evening with family members by his bedside. He had been in hospital since Sunday after his condition rapidly deteriorated.
“James was not only a brilliant Government minister as both Security and Immigration Minister at the Home Office and Secretary of State at the Northern Ireland Office and Ministry for Housing, Communities & Local Government, but a dedicated constituency MP, first for Hornchurch from 2005 to 2010, and then for Old Bexley & Sidcup for the past 11 years.
“But most importantly, he was a loving father to his three children, a devoted husband to Cathy and a faithful friend to so many.
“We would like to thank all the NHS staff, particularly those at Guy’s & St Thomas’ in London, who cared for James with such warmth, diligence and professionalism over the past three-and-a-half years.
“We would also ask that our privacy as a family is respected at this time.”
The world of politics pays tribute to James Brokenshire
Many MPs were quick to pay tribute to their colleague.