Politicians pay tribute to Nigel Lawson, who dies aged 91

The death of Nigel Lawson, former Conservative Chancellor who served in Margaret Thatcher’s cabinet, have prompted tributes from across the current Conservative party.

On Twitter, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak called him “an inspiration” and that he “was a transformational chancellor and an inspiration to me and many others”.

Best known for his role as chancellor, he retired from the House of Lords in December, ending a parliamentary career of almost 5 decades.

Current Chancellor Jeremy Hunt said Lord Lawson was a “rarity amongst politicians, someone who transformed our thinking as well as transforming our economy”, and Foreign Secretary James Cleverly called him “a true statesman”, saying as well that “His contributions to this nation will not be forgotten.”

Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab said Lord Lawson was “a giant who changed the political weather, a lodestar for Conservatives, and a kind man always generous with his wisdom”.

Party chairman Greg Hands said he will be remembered “for his clarity of thinking, commitment to free market economics and willingness to challenge orthodoxies”.

Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson said “He was a tax-cutter and simplifier who helped transform the economic landscape and helped millions of British people achieve their dreams,” he added.

Prior to his parliamentary career, Lawson was a financial journalist and editor of The Spectator before entering politics at the age of 42.

He served a number of positions in Margaret Thatcher’s government before she appointed him as chancellor.