John Prescott’s Son Joins Green Party
Sky News reports that David Prescott, the son of former Labour deputy prime minister John Prescott, has become a member of the Green Party. The move follows a significant shift in political alignment, with David now actively supporting the party’s campaign efforts.
By-election Victory and Political Shift
David, whose father served under Tony Blair for a decade, joined the Greens in October 2025, a year after his father’s passing. His involvement was highlighted in a Facebook post, where he appeared with activists in Gorton and Denton, which recently secured the party’s first by-election win in its history.
“What. A. Day. Hope Beat Hate.” — Caption accompanying David Prescott’s post
Labour’s Reaction and Fears of Defection
Karl Turner, who took over John Prescott’s former seat in Hull East in 2010, described the defection as “a major blow” but “not unexpected.” He noted David’s upbringing in a politically engaged socialist household and his early activism, emphasizing that while he was “always his own man,” the loss still signals a challenge for Labour.
“I suspect John Prescott would be furious if he was around today. But his anger would be aimed at Labour for allowing progressive voters to leave for a more radical alternative.” — Karl Turner
David’s Political Journey
Previously, David had campaigned as a Labour candidate in several constituencies, including East Hull and Greenwich and Woolwich, though he was not selected. In 2015, he successfully ran for Gainsborough but lost to Conservative Edward Leigh.
Controversy and Suspension
In 2017, David was temporarily removed from his role as an aide to Jeremy Corbyn due to harassment allegations. He denied the claims, and the party did not suspend his membership as no formal complaint was filed.
Green Party’s Perspective
A spokesperson for the Greens stated that David had not publicly commented on his switch “out of respect to friends still in Labour.” However, he was among 2,000 supporters who helped elect Hannah in Gorton and Denton, according to the party.
Labour’s Struggles and Calls for Change
The by-election loss has intensified concerns within Labour about losing progressive voters to the Greens and Reform. This comes amid a broader debate over the party’s strategy, with some MPs criticizing the government’s disconnect from its base.
“Labour lost votes in every direction. The result is a reflection of bad choices by the PM. We need new leadership.” — John Trickett, Labour MP
One Labour member called the outcome a “stinging blow” for Keir Starmer’s leadership, urging cooperation with other left-leaning parties. They argued that without fundamental reforms, Labour risks losing its core electorate to more progressive alternatives.
Prime Minister’s Acknowledgment
Prime Minister Keir Starmer admitted the Gorton and Denton performance was “very disappointing” but framed it as a common challenge for incumbent governments. He pledged to continue campaigning and “keep fighting” to regain momentum.
Read more from Sky News: My run-in with John Prescott | Can Starmer find a way back?
