Paul Flynn was a giant of the Labour movement, a passionate devolutionist and an exceptional parliamentarian. He was a champion for the Welsh language, which he learnt as a teenager, and was incredibly proud to have seen the establishment of our Senedd. Respected across the political divide, with his wonderful turns of phrase, witty comments and incisive mind, Paul undoubtedly spoke truth to power. He was far ahead of his time on issues that others found too controversial. He was proved right on so many of them. As he said, everyone agreed with him 20 years after he said it. [Laughter.]

He loved Newport, and was so proud to represent Newport West in Parliament. There could be no-one better to have on your side than Paul. A tenacious campaigner who cared about people and never gave up, always wanting to seek out and speak up for the silent voices, he was freethinking and courageous. Paul embraced new technology and saw it as an opportunity to communicate with more people. He was the only person I know who was disappointed when Twitter increased the character count. To him, Twitter was an art form, like poetry; every word mattered, and he enjoyed the challenge.

Due to his mobility issues, Paul thought of different ways to campaign. He once parked up on Bettws Hill and regaled the whole estate with a massive loudspeaker for hours with his dulcet tones. I'm not sure whether he enticed or annoyed people out to vote; either way, it worked.

I first met Paul when I was nine years old, when he visited my school after he was first elected to represent Newport West in 1987. He brought politics alive to me then, and has done so ever since. Never bland or boring, Paul proved that politics was about people, and wanted young people to be as passionate about it as he was all his life. 

He was forever optimistic. Best of all, he was kind, inspiring and so much fun to be around. He'll be greatly missed, and our thoughts and love are with Sam, his wife, and their family. He has done Newport, Wales and the Labour movement proud. [Applause.]