Corbyn pays tribute to oldest serving MP from Leeds

Sir Gerald Kaufman was the oldest serving MP in the Commons Credit: Press Association

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has paid tribute on social media to the late Leeds-born MP Sir Gerald Kaufman.

The 86-year-old was the oldest serving MP in the commons. He was educated at Leeds Grammar school and graduated with a degree in philosophy, politics and economics from the University of Oxford.

Sir Gerald was first elected as Manchester Ardwick MP in 1970 before becoming Manchester Gorton MP after constituency boundary changes in 1983 until his death.

His family said he died on Sunday evening after suffering from a long-term illness.

Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn described Sir Gerald as an "iconic and irascible figure", saying: "He loved life and politics. I will deeply miss him, both for his political commitment and constant friendship."

Commons Speaker John Bercow paid tribute saying: "I was very saddened to learn of the death of Sir Gerald Kaufman, the Father of the House and Manchester Gorton's outstanding representative.

"Gerald was a passionate campaigner for social justice, here in Britain and around the world.

"His passing will be mourned by his relatives, friends, constituents and colleagues."

Sir Gerald's death means 85-year-old Dennis Skinner who represents the constituency of Bolsover is now the oldest serving MP in the commons.