Tributes pour in for former Milton Keynes councillor and MP Brian White

The death of popular former councillor, MP and Mayor Brian White has prompted an outpouring of tributes on Twitter.
Brian WhiteBrian White
Brian White

MP Mark Lancaster wrote: “Desperately sad to hear news of former MP Brian White’s death. Friend, opponent, loving husband, and champion of socialism and all things MK.”

His colleague Iain Stewart MP wrote; “Very sad to hear about Brian White. Although we differed in our politics, he was good company and a great champion of MK as MP, Cllr & Mayor”, while MK council leader Peter Marland sent his thoughts to Brian’s family.

Douglas McCall, local Lib Dem leader, said: “Very sad to hear that @BrianLeenaWhite has died. Condolences to Leena. I knew Brian for over 20 years. He was a respected & hard working MP.”

John Cove: Director at MK Dons, wrote: “What terrible news that @brianLeenaWhite has left us too soon. He leaves behind a legacy that acts as a beacon of how to be an excellent constituency MP, an energetic and generous Mayor, a great community Councillor and a true gent. My thoughts are with Leena and his family at this sad time. RIP Brian”

Councillor Alice Jenkins described Brian as a “true gentleman and hugely kind” and added that she will “miss him greatly”

Labour campaigner Andrew Pakes said it had been a “privilege” to know Brian, while veteran Lib Dem councillor Sam Crooks said: Sometimes things really hurt.”

Sam added: “Brian and I were born a few yards from each other in Belfast. We followed different political routes but shared a common belief in the need to re-unite the centre left behind a progressive alliance. He was a superb ambassador for Milton Keynes and believed passionately in the opportunities that an expanding city could offer. He contributed hugely to the city’s development. It is a tragedy that he has died just as the MK2050 report is published charting a way ahead that echoes so much of what he wanted.

Age UK tweeted; “Very sad to hear of Cllr Brian White’s death. He was always a good friend to Age UK Milton Keynes.”

And former government defence minister and MP Ivor Caplin wrote: “Sad news today from #miltonkeynes with the passing of 1997 winner Brian White. A good local MP and colleague in House. Thoughts with family.”

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