The former Labour minister Phil Woolas, who served in the governments of both Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, has died at the age of 66. Woolas, who had brain cancer, held several ministerial roles including for local government, environment and immigration and served as MP for Oldham East and Saddleworth between 1997 and 2010. " Sir Tony described Woolas as "a greatly respected and admired colleague, and a source of both humour and rich political insight to all lucky enough to know him". " His successor as prime minister Gordon Brown also paid tribute as he described Woolas as a "brilliant MP, a highly-effective minister and a very generous and popular friend" Brown said the former minister "fought a brave struggle against an incurable cancer and will be sorely missed". In a notable moment at the Home Office, he was confronted during a live news conference by actor Joanna Lumley to make concessions over the rights of Gurkhas to remain in the UK. You can also send story ideas via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230.