Ed Miliband MP, Leader of the Labour Party said:

“It is with great sadness that I heard that Lord Barnett had died. Joel’s death brings to an end an extraordinary Parliamentary career spanning half a century.

“As a councillor, MP, cabinet minister and member of the House of Lords, Joel approached every challenge in the same tenacious, thoughtful and principled way.

“From the famous legacy of the formula that bears his name, to his time as Vice-Chairman of the BBC Joel made a huge contribution throughout almost six decades of public service.

“My thoughts are with Erica, his family and friends at this sad time.”