Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has led an outpouring of tributes to Lord Tom Sawyer, the former Labour general secretary and architect of New Labour, who has died at the age of 74.
Starmer described Sawyer as a "titan of the Labour movement" whose "vision and dedication helped shape modern British politics". The Labour leader praised his work in transforming the party's internal structures and outreach efforts, which laid the groundwork for the 1997 landslide victory.
A Political Legacy
Lord Sawyer served as Labour's general secretary from 1994 to 1998, a pivotal period when the party rebranded as New Labour under Tony Blair's leadership. His reforms modernised party operations and expanded membership engagement.
Former Prime Minister Tony Blair said: "Tom was instrumental in making Labour electable again. His practical wisdom and quiet determination were invaluable during our years of opposition and government."
Cross-Party Respect
Tributes came from across the political spectrum, with Conservative MP William Hague acknowledging Sawyer's "decency and commitment to public service". Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey highlighted his "unwavering belief in progressive politics".
Current Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner recalled how Sawyer "always made time for younger activists" and "embodied Labour values in everything he did".
Later Years and Honours
After leaving frontline politics, Lord Sawyer remained active in public life through his work in the House of Lords and various charitable organisations. He was made a life peer in 1998 and served on numerous parliamentary committees.
His family has requested privacy but expressed gratitude for the flood of kind messages from colleagues and friends across British politics.
