Keir Starmer issues statement after Pope Francis death - as politicians' tributes pour in

Keir Starmer has said he is "deeply saddened" to hear of the death of Pope Francis .

The Prime Minister said he joins "millions around the world in grieving the death of His Holiness Pope Francis". He commended the Pope's leadership in a "complex and challenging time for the world and the church", describing it as "often courageous" yet always coming "from a place of deep humility".

He said: "His tireless efforts to promote a world that is fairer for all will leave a lasting legacy. On behalf of the people of the United Kingdom, I share my sincerest condolences to the whole Catholic Church."

Mr Starmer said Pope Francis was a "pope for the poor, the downtrodden and the forgotten", adding: "He was close to the realities of human fragility, meeting Christians around the world facing war, famine, persecution and poverty. Yet he never lost the faith-fuelled hope of a better world."

The PM continued: "That hope was at the heart of his papacy. His determination to visibly live out his faith inspired people across the world to see afresh the church's teachings of mercy and charity. With his death, we are reminded once more of his call to care for one another across different faiths, backgrounds, nations and beliefs."

Sir Tony Blair said Pope Francis was admired "for his humility, compassion and unwavering commitment to the Christian faith".

The former prime minister, who converted to Catholicism after leaving office, said: "Pope Francis was an extraordinary and devoted servant of the Catholic Church, admired both within and beyond it for his humility, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the Christian faith and the service of all humanity-Christian and non-Christian alike. Cherie and I are deeply saddened by his passing. May he rest in peace."

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch paid tribute to Pope Francis's "humility, courage, and conviction" following his death. "Pope Francis spent his final Easter yesterday bearing witness to the faith he devoted his life to - a quiet presence at a time when the world needed humility, courage, and conviction," Ms Badenoch posed to X.

"His death on Easter Monday feels especially poignant. He reminded us that leadership isn't about power, but about service. When I met him in 2022, he spoke warmly of the UK and the values we share. In a world that too often turns away from faith, he stood firm. May he rest in peace."

Sir Ed Davey has paid tribute to Pope Francis as "a leader of compassion and courage". The Liberal Democrat leader said: "Pope Francis's passing is a profound loss to millions across the world. He was a leader of compassion and courage, speaking up for those in need and calling for peace in a world too often divided.

"His influence reached far beyond the Church. He offered hope by reminding us of strength in kindness and faith. We should remember his example: stand up for what's right, care for others, and hold onto compassion and hope."

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage said: "My sympathies go out to all in the Catholic Church following the death of Pope Francis. I met him and liked him very much."

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan posted on X: "As the Mayor to a city of more than one million Catholics, I want to express my sadness, and the sadness of all Londoners, at the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. He was a man of courage and humility who demonstrated how co-operation between faiths was a force for good."

A senior Vatican official announced Pope Francis's death on Monday morning. Camerlengo Cardinal Kevin Farrell said in a statement: "At 7.35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church.

"He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with faithfulness, courage, and universal love, especially for the poorest and most marginalised. With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite, merciful love of God, One and Tribune."

The 88-year-old Pope emerged from his convalescence on Easter Sunday to bless the thousands of people in St Peter's Square in Vatican City.