Former Conservative Cabinet minister Lord Walker of Worcester has died following a long struggle with cancer, his family said today. He was 78.

Peter Walker first entered government in the 1960s and went on to serve in the cabinets of Edward Heath and Margaret Thatcher

He was best known as energy secretary during the miners’ strike of the 1980s.

In a statement, Lord Walker’s family said: “Peter Walker passed away quietly on Wednesday morning after a long struggle with cancer. His whole family were able to be with him in his last days. He will be hugely missed by his wife Tessa, five children and five grandchildren.

“As a politician, he always believed in the importance of helping those most in need, combining efficiency with compassion. He was a true one-nation Conservative and a patriot. His great personal compassion was always reflected in his private life.

“To the end he was passionate about his work and his family, working diligently and enthusiastically, but always taking the time to support and cherish those closest to him. For all his great achievements, those who know him best will remember him most for his humour and generosity.

“Having dedicated so much of his life to serving Worcester, it was appropriate that he was able to spend his last days there.

“As a passionate supporter of the hospice movement, who for many years championed the cause of palliative care in Parliament, he would have been proud of the care that was provided for him at St Richard’s Hospice.

“The family would like to thank the staff and volunteers at St Richard’s and all the friends who have supported us through this difficult time.”

Lord Walker’s son, Robin Walker, was elected as the Tory MP for Worcester - the same seat held by his father - on May 6.

Lord Walker first entered Parliament in 1961 as MP for Worcester. Two years later he was appointed to his first government post as the unpaid parliamentary private secretary to the then leader of the Commons, Selwyn Lloyd.

He was regarded as a close ally of Mr Heath, who brought him into the Cabinet in 1970 as environment secretary - making him the first environment minister anywhere in the world.

Although he did not serve in the shadow cabinet under Mrs Thatcher while the Conservatives were in opposition, she brought him back to the front bench as agriculture minister following her 1979 general election victory.

In 1983 she made him energy secretary, giving him a frontline role in combating the miners’ strike of 1984 to 1985. In 1987 he was moved to Welsh secretary - a post he held until 1990, when he finally bowed out of government.

He was made a life peer in 1992.