I have just heard that Tony Benn has died after a long illness, though I did not agree with some of his ideas, He was one of only a few MP's who stood up in parliament and represented his constituents and support working class people.

As the son of an former miner I agree with his support in the 84-85 miners strike for the miners to try and stop the pit closure program.

He was one of a few good MP's, true politicians and a true socialist, He will be missed.

I agree Adam, he was inspirational.

Someone who always stood up for his ideals in life.

If 'Evil exists when good men/women do nothing' , then Tony Benn was the person who truly cared for causes and people who were isolated from the mainstream.

He was often alone in his support for an individual or a cause.

A brave man, who will be missed.

Sad news, but he'd been seriously ill for quite some time.

 

He visited Bedlington many times in his long career, and will likely be seen in several pictures in the Gallery.  Although many of his views were totally wrong-headed he was a great asset to - the Tory Party;  a fact no more readily appreciated than by his Labour Party colleagues! Though - like a stopped clock - he was spot-on once in a while.  An idealist, a true socialist, and an eccentric.

 

No one ever doubted that he believed what he was saying though, and that's where the present lot part company with Tony's generation.  Often wrong, but still very worthy of respect, you are a sad loss Tony!