Keir Starmer statement on Alistair Darling

Keir Starmer MP, Leader of the Labour Party, said:

"I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Alistair Darling. My heart goes out to his family, particularly Maggie, Calum and Anna, whom he loved so dearly.

"Alistair lived a life devoted to public service. He will be remembered as the Chancellor whose calm expertise and honesty helped to guide Britain through the tumult of the global financial crisis. He was a lifelong advocate for Scotland and the Scottish people and his greatest professional pride came from representing his constituents in Edinburgh.

"I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have benefited from Alistair’s counsel and friendship. He was always at hand to provide advice built on his decades of experience - always with his trademark wry, good humour.

"Alistair will be missed by all those whose lives he touched. His loss to the Labour Party, his friends and his family is immeasurable."