Tributes paid to Alastair Campbell
Colleagues and friends of the former director of communications and strategy have been paying tribute to him following his resignation yesterday.
The Prime Minister described the spin doctor as “an immensely able, fearless, loyal servant of the cause he believes in.”
Continuing, Mr Blair spoke of his respect for his close friend: “The picture of Alastair Campbell painted by parts of the media has always been a caricature.”
“The Alastair Campbell I know is an immensely able, fearless, loyal servant of the cause he believes in, who was dedicated not only to that cause but to his country. He is a strong character who can make enemies but those who know him best, like him best.”
“He was, is, and will remain a good friend,” added the Prime Minister.
Cabinet colleagues of Mr Blair joined him in paying tribute to Mr Campbell. Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott said that Mr Campbell is ” a talented and humorous man” and would be “very much missed”.
Adding to the tributes, David Blunkett said: “Alastair has often been controversial and occasionally infuriating, but has always been the most effective, talented and committed spokesman for the Prime Minister, Government and Party that any Prime Minister has ever had.”
