Geoffrey Howe dead: David Cameron pays tribute to 'revolutionary' former Chancellor of the Exchequer

Howe was often credited as the man who took down Thatcher

David Cameron leaves Manchester Central with MP for Eastbourne Caroline Ansell (PA)

David Cameron has paid tribute to the “revolutionary” Geoffrey Howe following the news that the former Chancellor of the Exchequer has died aged 88.

Howe’s family announced the news in a statement, saying Howe died of a suspected heart attack.

In a statement posted to Facebook, Cameron called him a “kind, gentle and deeply thoughtful man” who possessed huge courage and resolve.

“He loved his politics and never stopped giving strong and sound advice. George Osborne and I benefited greatly from his wisdom and determination to improve the state of the country,” he said.

“The Conservative family has lost one of its greats. Our thoughts are with his family.”

Howe stepped down after 51 years in Parliament earlier this year.

Throughout his career he held positions including Foreign Secretary, Deputy Prime Minister and Leader of the House of Commons.

He was often credited as “the man who took down Thatcher” after a dramatic resignation in 1990 that triggered the leadership contest and saw the end of Thatcher’s reign. You can watch the speech here.