John Prescott’s son joins Greens
John Prescott’s Son Joins Green Party
Sky News has uncovered that David Prescott, the offspring of former Labour deputy prime minister John Prescott, has transitioned to the Green Party. The move follows a year of mourning after his father’s passing, marking a notable shift in the political landscape.
Political Context and Defection
In October 2025, David Prescott became a member of the Green Party, aligning with activists in Gorton and Denton. These areas recently secured the party’s first by-election triumph, with a social media caption declaring,
“What. A. Day. Hope Beat Hate.”
Labour’s Disappointment
Karl Turner, who took over John Prescott’s former seat in Hull East during the 2010 general election, expressed dismay over the defection. “David’s political journey began in the Labour Party, shaped by a family deeply rooted in socialist ideals and trade unions,” he stated. “Despite his personal convictions, he remains a product of Labour’s legacy. I believe John would be incensed if he were still alive today.”
Turner further noted,
“His frustration would target Labour for enabling progressive voters to defect toward a more left-leaning alternative. The party has long been the gateway for change, benefiting the many, not the few.”
Broader Implications for Labour
The by-election loss underscored Labour’s challenges, as the party fell to third place behind Reform and the Greens. Analysts suggest this reflects a dual threat: losing support to right-wing factions and facing defections from its progressive base, who have grown disillusioned with Labour’s approach to issues like the Gaza conflict.
A recent YouGov poll for Sky News revealed the Greens surged to 21%, a four-point increase, attributed largely to the campaign in Gorton and Denton. The victory has intensified debates within Labour about its strategic direction.
David’s Political History
David Prescott, one of John’s two sons with wife Pauline, previously sought Labour candidacy in several constituencies, including East Hull, Greenwich and Woolwich, and Hull West and Hessle. Though he narrowly missed selection in those races, he successfully contested Gainsborough in 2015, though ultimately lost to Conservative Edward Leigh.
In 2017, he was temporarily suspended from aiding Jeremy Corbyn due to harassment allegations. The claims were denied, and the party did not revoke his membership at the time, as no formal complaint was submitted.
Green Party’s Perspective
A spokesperson for the Greens remarked,
“David hasn’t openly shared his decision to join us, respecting those still loyal to Labour. Yet, he was among 2,000 volunteers who rallied to support Hannah’s campaign in Gorton and Denton. We’re grateful for his contribution.”
Following the by-election, some Labour MPs have called for leadership changes, citing the loss as a result of poor political decisions. John Trickett, representing Normanton and Hemsworth, tweeted,
“Labour lost votes in every direction. This mirrors a national trend. The prime minister’s choices have left the party in disarray. A new leadership is essential.”
Another Labour representative told Sky News,
“This outcome is a clear blow to the party and Starmer’s leadership. We’ve alienated our core supporters and failed to engage activists. Voters leaving isn’t surprising when we’ve ignored their concerns. To counter Reform, we must embrace progressive alliances—cooperation, reform, and humility.”
Prime Minister Keir Starmer acknowledged the Gorton and Denton defeat as “very disappointing” but emphasized it’s a common occurrence for governing parties. He pledged to continue the fight, insisting the result doesn’t signal a fundamental crisis.
Read more from Sky News: My run-in with John Prescott | Can Starmer find a way back?
