Tributes have been paid to a former long-serving Labour MP who has died at the age of 84.
Political figures described Peter Pike, who served as MP for Burnley from 1983 to 2005, as a “true gentleman” and “campaigner for social justice” after his death was announced on Monday.
The father of two sat on several committees and groups and was among the Labour backbench rebels who voted against the war in Iraq.
In June 2015, Mr Pike was re-elected as chair of Burnley Constituency Labour Party. He stood down from this role in January 2016.
Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle said: “It’s very sad news hearing of the death of Peter. He was Labour through and through, a great MP for Burnley, thoughts are with his family.”
Peter Pike
Former Labour MP Mike Gapes said: “I’m so sorry to read this. Peter was a good parliamentary colleague, an internationalist and campaigner for social justice. My thoughts are with his family and friends.”
Steve McCabe, MP for Birmingham Selly Oak, said on Twitter: “Sad news. He was a lovely, generous man.”
Conservative MP Andrew Stephenson tweeted: “Sad to hear Peter Pike (Labour MP for Burnley 1983-2005) has died.
“I always found Peter a true gentleman & we recently chatted about the privilege of attending the huge variety of local events all MPs get to attend. My thoughts & prayers are with his daughters Carol and Jane.”
Former mayor of Burnley Lord Wajid Khan said: “Devastated and saddened at the loss of a dear friend, Peter Pike. He was one of the finest public servants Burnley has had. My condolences to the whole family. RIP Peter.”
Burnley Football Club said it was “deeply saddened” following Mr Pike’s death.
