Robert Key, the Former Salisbury MP who held freedom of the City, has passed away aged 77.
Robert served as Salisbury MP for 27 years from 1983 to 2010 and held several positions within Conservative governments, including as Minister for Local Government and Inner Cities and as Minister for Roads and Traffic.
He was proud of the city of Salisbury and always looked to promote the city in its best light and after retiring from front-line politics was still active in the community and was involved in many organisations.
He chaired the board responsible for the Magna Carta 800th anniversary celebration, which took place at the Cathedral and across the city.
His successor and current Salisbury MP, John Glen, paid tribute: "Very sad news today to hear of the passing of Robert Key. For 27 years in Parliament, he represented the people of Salisbury with dedication, distinction, and a strong ethos of public service.
"Rob was the very best of Salisbury, always thinking of what was in the interest of our city – from his three ministerial roles in government, his position as a member of the General Synod of the Church of England, and his work with Salisbury Cathedral.
"I was delighted to see Rob receive the rare honour of Freedom of the City from Salisbury City Council at the Guildhall in December 2017 – a fitting tribute to his service.
"I know many Salisbury residents will sorely miss Rob’s unique contribution to our public life but will always be grateful for the impact he had on all our lives. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife Sue and their three children at this difficult time."
Salisbury City Council posted a statement at lunchtime saying: "We are saddened to hear of the death of Mr Robert Key who served as the Conservative Member of Parliament for Salisbury from 1983 until 2010. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time. The flag is flying at half-mast at Salisbury Guildhall as a mark of respect."
Salisbury Mayor Tom Corbin tweeted: "I'm very sorry to hear that Robert Key has passed away. Many people like me will have known him as a very well respected MP for Salisbury (1983-2010) and I had the privilege of being present when he was awarded Freedom of the City of Salisbury in 2017."
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