This Blog is saddened, like so many, at the news of the passing of one of the great political personalities of modern times. His politics were a unique mix of enthusiasm, principle, compassion and left wing ideology. When in parliament, sometimes as a minister, he was both efficient and incisive. He was also divisive because his principles took him to the far left wing; dismissed by many as the loony left. But division is the dynamic of democracy and it is no accident that as he withdrew from formal political combat as his age advanced, the politics of our country became blander and the centre softer.
With most politicians the limelight fades when they retire, but with Tony Benn it burned ever brighter. He became a national treasure admired and respected even by those who had been his bitterest political enemies. His passing will be felt most keenly by his family to whom all will offer sympathy in their loss. In truth we have all lost something.