The prime minister Theresa May and Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn have paid tribute to Baroness Patricia Hollis in the House of Commons.

Opening their weekly exchange at the dispatch box, they both delivered kind words about the former Norwich City Council leader who died earlier this week.

Mr Corbyn said: 'I hope the whole House will join me in paying tribute to Patricia Hollis, Baroness Hollis of Heigham who died earlier this week. She was a tireless campaigner for social justice, played a pivotal role in defeating the cuts to tax credits the government was imposing on low-paid workers and we on this side will miss her dearly.'

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The prime minister responded: 'Can I first of all join him, and I am sure the whole House joins him, in expressing our sincere condolences to the family of Baroness Hollis. She was an outstanding parliamentarian and I am sure members from all sides of the House will remember how she was a dedicated champion for the poorest and most disadvantaged in our society.'

Baroness Hollis died surrounded by her family aged 77.

Norwich South MP Clive Lewis said: 'She was a mentor and a friend. She helped me a lot. She was a formidable woman but also a warm and friendly person who showed me no end of support.'

And former Norwich MP Charles Clarke added: 'She was an exceptionally intelligent and passionate Labour politician who was utterly dedicated to the welfare of Norwich. From even before her leadership of the City Council, her vision played a decisive role in creating the vibrant and forward-looking city that it is today.'