Dame Cheryl Gillan dead aged 68 – Boris Johnson pays tribute to MP who died after ‘long illness’

BORIS Johnson has today paid tribute to MP Dame Cheryl Gillian who has died following a "long illness" aged 68.

The Prime Minister said the Conservative politician will be "sorely missed" in a statement released this afternoon.

Mr Johnson described Dame Cheryl, the MP for Chesham and Amersham, as a “great servant” who was "always full of wise advice and good humour".

He said today: "I’m very sad to hear the news of the death of Dame Cheryl Gillan.

“She was a great servant to the people of Chesham and Amersham, to the Conservative Party and to the country as secretary of state for Wales.

“Always full of wise advice and good humour, she was much loved on all sides of the House of Commons and will be sorely missed.

“My sincere condolences to her family and friends.”

Amanda Milling MP, co-chairman of the Conservative Party, said Dame Cheryl - who was the Secretary of State for Wales from 2010 to 2012 - made a "huge contribution to public life".

She added: "It was incredibly sad to hear that Dame Cheryl Gillan MP passed away at the weekend.

“Cheryl had been ill for some time, but battled her illness with great stoicism and grace.

“Cheryl was a dedicated parliamentarian for many decades, serving in the Cabinet and she made a huge contribution to public life and our party.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Cheryl’s family and friends.”

Trade Secretary and Conservative MP Liz Truss tweeted: “Very sorry to hear the sad news about Dame Cheryl Gillan.

“She was a brilliant Parliamentarian, a kind colleague and great fun. We will miss her. All my thoughts with her family and loved ones.”