Pope Francis dead: Tributes flood in from world leaders after pontiff's death

Pope Francis' death at the age of 88 on this Easter Monday has sparked mourning across the catholic world, as millions mark the death of the head of the church.

In a statement this morning, Cardinal Kevin Ferrell, the Vatican camerlengo, confirmed: "At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church."

He added: "He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with faithfulness, courage, and universal love, especially for the poorest and most marginalized.

"With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite, merciful love of God, One and Tribune.″

While world leaders are yet to comment on the major global news, British MPs have already emerged with breaking reactions.

Kemi Badenoch, the Conservative Party leader, noted that Pope Francis's death on Easter Monday "feels especially poignant".

She said: "Pope Francis spent his final Easter yesterday bearing witness to the faith he devoted his life to - a quiet presence at a time when the world needed humility, courage, and conviction."

"His death on Easter Monday feels especially poignant. He reminded us that leadership isn't about power, but about service. When I met him in 2022, he spoke warmly of the UK and the values we share. In a world that too often turns away from faith, he stood firm. May he rest in peace."

Sir Ed Davey, the LibDem leader, was first out of the gates, describing the Pope's death as a "profound loss to millions across the world".

Sir Ed continued: "He was a leader of compassion and courage, speaking up for those in need and calling for peace in a world too often divided."

"His influence reached far beyond the Church. He offered hope by reminding us of strength in kindness and faith.

"We should remember his example: stand up for what's right, care for others, and hold onto compassion and hope."

Nigel Farage, Reform UK leader, simply said: "My sympathies go out to all in the Catholic Church following the death of Pope Francis. I met him and liked him very much."

Anas Sarwar, the leader of Labour in Scotland, said he was "deeply saddened" by the news, noting that Pope Francis "dedicated his life to serving the poor and dispossessed."

"My thoughts are with Scotland's catholic communities and catholics worldwide. Lux aeterna luceat ei."

While Conservative MP Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst said he is "deeply saddened by the passing of Pope Frances. In an increasingly uncertain world, he was resolute in his support for freedom and opposition to totalitarianism."

"The Catholic Church has lost a remarkable Pope, and the world a very great spiritual leader."

Liz Saville Roberts, Plaid Cymru's Westminster leader, said Pope Francis "led the followers of the Catholic Christian faith with humanity and dignity."

"Francis's voice for the poor and the oppressed across the world will be greatly missed - it is our duty to uphold his legacy."

The Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, said Francis was "a listening Pope whose commitment to the principle and process of synodality will be a permanent legacy to the Roman Catholic Church and to all of us".

"I remember, in the brief times I spend with him, how this holy man of God was also very human. He was witty, lively, good to be with, and the warmth of his personality and interest in others shone out from him."

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