Labour MP Bernie Grant dies

Grant campaigned against racism

One of Britain's first black MPs, Bernie Grant, has died aged 56.

The controversial, Guyana-born MP was famous for his left-wing views and campaigned against all forms of racism.

Bernie was an inspiration to black people throughout the country

Prime Minister Tony Blair

When, in 1985, rioting broke out in his constituency, Mr Grant appeared to defend some of the rioters' actions.

The remarks led to him being dubbed "Barmy Bernie" - a nickname he found difficult to shake off.

Mr Grant's office said he died at the Middlesex Hospital in London at 7.30am on Saturday, following a heart attack.

He had had a long-standing kidney complaint and had been in hospital overnight. But his familiy believed he had been recovering well.

Rioting broke out in Mr Grant's constituency

Mr Grant, who had been MP for Tottenham in north London since 1987, was particularly close to his constituents.

Political observers say he was criticised for his vehement views, but felt a duty to speak up for ethnic minorities.

He had a reputation for being anti-police, believing that they treated blacks unfairly.

Last year, he called for Metropolitan Police Commissioner, Sir Paul Condon, to take early retirement following a damning report into the inquiry on the Stephen Lawrence murder.

After the row over the rioting, he always protested that he was only summing up people's point of view, and had made the remarks while attempting to persuade crowds of youths not to provoke further trouble.

Blair's tribute

Prime Minister Tony Blair said: "He was someone for whom I had immense respect and affection.

Mr Grant at the opening of Parliament in 1996

"He was a dedicated and diligent constituency MP who worked tirelessly for the less well-off, whose commitment to social justice was unwavering and who also made a powerful contribution to development issues.

"He advised me regularly on issues relating to development and on our relations with Caribbean countries.

"He was someone who always made efforts to understand and respect other people's point of view.

"Bernie was also an inspiration to black people throughout the country. One day I hope it will be commonplace to have black and Asian MPs at Westminster.

"When that happens, it will in no small measure be a tribute to Bernie Grant and the inspirational lead he gave."

Widow mourns

Mr Grant leaves a wife, Sharon, who was also his personal assistant, and three sons.

He had a huge heart and I guess that he just wore it out

Widow Sharon Grant

Mrs Grant said: "Bernie touched the lives of so many people in a lifetime's work as both a national and local politician, and there will be great sadness today.

"We have lost a great fighter and a champion of justice for oppressed people everywhere.

"He had a huge heart and I guess that he just wore it out."

Home Office Minister Paul Boateng said: "A tireless fighter in the struggle for racial justice, his was an authentic and fearless voice in the black cause.

"He will leave a gaping chasm in the political firmament."

Conservative Party chairman Michael Ancram said: "Bernie Grant brought a special style to politics and was a respected member of the House of Commons. "He will be missed. We send our thoughts and condolences to his family."