Phil Woolas, Labour MP, Passes Away

0:00On March 14, Phil Woolis, a former labor minister and MP for Oldham East and Saddleworth, has died at age 66 from brain cancer. He passed away on Saturday, after more than a year fighting the aggressive form known as GLIO BLASTOMA. Woolis served in government under Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, holding roles like Immigration Minister and Environment Minister. One of his most memorable moments came in 2009, when actress Joanna Lumley confronted him live on television. As Immigration Minister, he faced questions over government plans to limit retired gerkers' rights to settle in the UK. Lumley was leading a campaign for their cause, but she later expressed reassurance after meeting him, tributes poured in from political leaders today. Tony Blair called Woolis a greatly respected colleague. Gordon Brown described him as a brilliant MP, effective minister and generous friend who would be sorely missed. Common Speaker Lindsey Hoyle also offered condolences to the family.

1:00Woolis first entered parliament in the Blair landslide of 1997, representing his seat for 13 years. Before politics, he was president of the National Union of Students, a TV producer and communications director for the GMB Union. His career ended in 2010. After leaving office, he launched a political and risk consultancy and chaired the Oldham Charity A Center for over 25 years, aiding those. With communication challenges, he leaves his wife Tracy, sons Josh and Jed, and a new grandson, all morning, a dedicated public servant.