British PM leads tributes to Mandela

British Prime Minister David Cameron on Friday led political tributes to former South African president Nelson Mandela who passed away Thursday. Signing the book of condolence for Mandela at the South Africa House in London, the prime minister described Mandela as "an amazing man, an extraordinary heroic figure but also a man with a sense of forgiveness which I think is the lesson that we'll need to learn and try to live by." "I think his achievements through his inspiration will be every bit as powerful as what he achieved in his life." He wrote, "Your cause of fighting for freedom and against discrimination, your struggle for justice, your triumph against adversity - these things will inspire generations to come." "Your generosity, compassion and profound sense of forgiveness, have given us all lessons to learn and live by." Queen Elizabeth sent her condolences to the family of Mandela, saying that she was deeply saddened to learn of his death. "He worked tirelessly for the good of his country, and his legacy is the peaceful South Africa we see today," the Queen said. Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said the hope Mandela offered was enough to unite races; it bridged cultures and transcended generations; and it could heal the deepest divides. "Our greatest tribute to him will be our commitment to equality, humanity and peace - the values for which he very literally put his life on the line," he said. Foreign Secretary William Hague said: "Nelson Mandela was one of the greatest moral and political leaders of our time. His life story is a compelling and inspiringly profound political journey. An international icon and inspiration to millions, his appeal transcended race, religion and class." Many ordinary people in London have paid tribute to Mandela at the South Africa House in London. It is reported that the British parliament will hold a "major event" at Westminster Hall in memory of Mandela. Books of condolence are open to members of the public to sign at churches such as St Margaret's Church and Westminster Abbey.