JEREMY CORYBN has led tributes to former Labour MP Dr Ian Gibson, who died on Friday aged 82.

The former Labour leader said Dr Gibson, who represented the Norwich North constituency from 1997 to 2009, was a “true socialist” whose whole life had been a “quest” to change society for the better. 

Former shadow chancellor John McDonnell said Dr Gibson never “shied away from a fight for justice and equality.”

“His intellectual depth and thoroughness meant that I can’t remember Ian ever losing a debate and with his dry sense of humour he could puncture the pomposity of any bloated Tory,” he added. 

A former member of the Socialist Campaign Group of Labour MPs, Dr Gibson campaigned against the Iraq war and university tuition fees.  

He used his scientific knowledge when calling on the government to recognise Gulf War Syndrome. 

Norwich South Labour MP Clive Lewis said: "[Dr Gibson] was admired for his humour but also his steadfast political conviction as a socialist.

“He leaves behind a legacy of someone always prepared to speak up for those without a voice.”

Former Nottingham South Labour MP Alan Simpson said: “Ian stood head and shoulders above most other Labour MPs.

“The question now is can we find a new generation Ian Gibson?”

Dr Gibson’s career as an MP came to an end in 2009 following controversy over his expenses.

He was said to have claimed for a flat which his daughter and her partner lived in rent-free.

The Labour Party panel investigating the claims was described as a “kangaroo court” by the then Norwich party chairman.

Dr Gibson, who was originally from Dumfries, continued to campaign on local causes and was also well known for his love of Norwich City football club.