LABOUR MP Jack Dromey died suddenly at his flat this morning aged 73, his family has announced.

The serving shadow minister and MP for Birmingham Erdington leaves behind his wife Harriet Harman – also a Labour MP – and three children.

A statement issued on behalf of the family said: "Jack Dromey MP died suddenly this morning aged 73 in his flat in Erdington.

"He had been a dedicated Member of Parliament for Birmingham Erdington since 2010.

"He was a much loved husband, father and grandfather, and he will be greatly missed."

Mr Dromey was only yesterday speaking in Parliament during a debate on Afghan refugees.

His wife Ms Harman, who he married in 1982, is also a Labour MP and was previously deputy leader of the party.

Their son Joe Dromey tweeted a touching tribute: "Our dad – Jack – died suddenly today. We loved him so, so much. Rest in peace big man x."

Until his death Mr Dromey was shadow immigration minister in Sir Keir Starmer's team.

Tributes flooded in tonight from all sides of the political divide as politicians paid their respects.

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Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said: "The proud son of Irish parents, Jack Dromey dedicated his life to standing up for working people through the Labour movement, becoming deputy general secretary of the UK's largest trade union and then a Labour MP.

"From supporting the strike at the Grunwick film processing laboratory, when he met Harriet, through to being elected to represent Birmingham Erdington in 2010, Jack lived his commitment to social justice every day.

"Jack was recognised for his determination to stand up for his constituents and he was highly respected and warmly regarded across Parliament.

"My thoughts and those of the whole Labour movement are with Harriet, their children and all those who knew and loved Jack."

Tory Cabinet Minister Nadhim Zahawi said: "Shocked and heart broken by the news of the sudden death of Jack Dromey MP. He was a friend, thoughts and prayers with Harriet Harman and the family."

Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker of the House of Commons, described the MP as a "great guy" and mourned "another sad day" for Parliament.

He said: "He was a great guy, down to earth, always positive and always looking to support and save jobs. 

'At his heart he was a devoted husband, father and grandfather – so all our thoughts go to Harriet and the rest of the family at this very sad time."

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