British Parliament Pays Tribute to Opposition Leader John Smith

The British Parliament suspended its regular question time on Thursday to pay tribute to opposition leader John Smith, who died suddenly at 55 after collapsing in his flat due to a heart attack. The Labour Party leader, who had transformed the party into the country's most popular political movement after taking over two years ago, was remembered by Prime Minister John Major and other lawmakers for his exceptional debating skills, sense of humor, and commitment to serving the public interest.

Key Takeaways:

• Prime Minister John Major praised John Smith's "rare and formidable" debating skills, stating that he was "always master of his brief" and that his speeches would "shake and move the will of the House."
• Margaret Beckett, Smith's former deputy and current acting Labour leader, commended Smith for his "formidable intellect and highest ethics" and noted that he had a "wicked sense of humor."
• Liberal Democrat party leader Paddy Ashdown described Smith's death as "a great loss for progressive politics in this country" and noted that he had looked like a potential prime minister.
• Labour's former leader Neil Kinnock quoted the words of the poet Shelley to describe Smith as a leader who "with resolute will vanquished the Earth's meanness."
• Conservative peer Lord Wakeham lamented Smith's "all too brief" term in office, stating that he was "honest, honorable and dedicated to serving the public interest."

Statistics:

• John Smith was 55 years old at the time of his death.
• Smith had been Labour leader for two years before his death.
• The Labour Party had become the country's most popular political movement under Smith's leadership.
• Smith's speeches were known for their exceptional debating skills and ability to move the will of the House.

Sources:

• British Parliament (May 12)
• BBC News (May 18)
• The Guardian (May 13)
• The Times (May 12)