FORMER Salisbury MP Robert Key has died at the age of 77. 

Mr Key was the Conservative MP for Salisbury from 1983 to 2010, and was Minister for Local Government and Inner Cities in the Department of the Environment (now DEFRA) from 1990–2.

He was also Minister for Sport at the Department of National Heritage (now Culture, Media and Sport) from 1992–3, and Minister for Roads and Traffic from 1993–4.

Salisbury City Council tweeted just after midday today, 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." 

In 2015, he chaired the Salisbury Cathedral Magna Carta 800th Board in Salisbury Cathedral.

In 2017, the City Council awarded him the Honorary Freedom of the City at a special Full Council meeting at The Guildhall.

His successor as MP for Salisbury John Glen said: "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."

More to follow.