Labour MP Ashok Kumar dies 'suddenly and accidentally' aged 53
Labour MP Ashok Kumar dies aged 53
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Ashok Kumar, the Labour MP for Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland, has died at the age of 53, his constituency office announced on Monday afternoon.
Police claim Dr Kumar was found at his home in Middlesbrough and was later pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics.
A spokesman for his office also confirmed his death, claiming it had been "sudden" and "accidental".
MPs were told of the news by Commons speaker John Bercow who described the 53-year-old as "a most assiduous member [of parliament]" and "much respected".
"I am sure members on all sides of the House will join me in mourning the loss of a colleague and extending our sympathy to the honourable member's family and friends," he added.
The Northern Echo also quotes the leader of Redcar and Cleveland borough council, George Dunning, as describing Dr Kumar as a "first class constituency MP and a great friend".
"Ashok worked tirelessly for his constituents. [he] was extremely disappointed at the recent job losses at Corus on Teesside. I am sure his former steel colleagues will miss Ashok who was a fantastic ambassador for Teesside Steel.
"Our thoughts and condolences go out to Ashok's family and his many friends at this very sad time."
Dr Kumar entered parliament in 1991 and had served as MP for Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland since 1997.
During his time in the Labour party he also served as an aide to environment secretary Hilary Benn.
Speaking after the news of Dr Kumar's death on Monday, Mr Benn said: "I am deeply shocked and saddened by this news. It is very hard to believe that Ashok is no longer with us.
"Ashok was a pioneer, a doughty fighter for his constituents and a Labour man through and through who cared deeply for others.
"He was also fearless in pursuit of what he saw as right. I came to value his friendship, his loyalty and his sense of fun over the many years we worked together."