Tributes as former MP Lord Peter Archer dies at 85

Tributes have poured in for former Sandwell MP and former solicitor general Lord Peter Archer who has died. The 85-year-old came from Wednesbury.

Lord Archer had been ill for some time, and passed away yesterday morning.

West Bromwich East MP Tom Watson said: "Lord Archer was unique, he possessed a great intellect, deep integrity and a concern for the lives of ordinary people.

"He is an example for future parliamentarians to follow. My thoughts are with his family who I know will be comforted by the thoughts and prayers of the many local people that were privileged to call Peter their friend."

The father and grandfather was a retired barrister who served as solicitor general from 1974 to 1979.

As Peter Archer he was MP for Rowley Regis and Tipton in 1966-1974 and for Warley West in 1974 to 1992.

He served in the Labour shadow cabinet in the 1980s and as an opposition spokesman on foreign affairs after being given a peerage in 1992.

West Bromwich West MP Adrian Bailey said: "He was widely respected throughout the Black Country. I always found him very approachable and helpful."

Labour councillors and friends have also paid tribute to their respected colleague and friend.