Former Labour minister and peer, Frank Field, has died at the age of 81 after a battle with cancer. Field served as the MP for Birkenhead for 40 years and was known for his commitment to addressing poverty and social justice issues. He held the position of welfare reform minister under Tony Blair before resigning from the Labour Party later in his career due to disagreements over the party’s direction and issues of antisemitism.

Throughout his tenure, Field was instrumental in advocating for reforms in welfare, pensions, and child poverty, and took a strong stance against modern slavery. His contributions were recognized in 2022 when he was appointed to the Order of the Companions of Honour. Described by colleagues as a principled and compassionate politician, Field also chaired the Work and Pensions Select Committee, focusing on upliftment through work rather than welfare dependency.

Despite differences with many within his own party, particularly on issues like Brexit and benefits reform, Field was respected for his integrity and dedication to his beliefs. Tributes have been paid by figures across the political spectrum, including Labour leader Keir Starmer and Shadow health secretary Wes Streeting, who highlighted Field’s role as a “great parliamentarian” and his advocacy for the vulnerable.

Field’s family described him as an “extraordinary individual,” and his passing is noted as marking the end of an era in British politics, remembered for his lifelong dedication to improving society and the lives of the less fortunate.