Statements from the Secretary of State for Scotland and Advocate General for
Scotland Baroness Catherine of Cluny KC, following the passing of
Lord .
Scottish Secretary said:
I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of .
Jim was the kind of politician that gives politics a good name.
Decent, thoughtful and dutiful he embodied much that is best in
our national life.
As Scotland's first Deputy First Minister, he helped shape the
very foundations of our devolved Parliament. His leadership
during those early years set the tone for the institution we know
today.
Throughout his career- serving as Advocate General for Scotland,
leading the Scottish Liberal Democrats, or as Moderator of the
Church of Scotland - he brought an unwavering commitment to
service.
He was a man of faith and decency, respected across the political
spectrum. My thoughts are with his wife and family.
The Advocate General for Scotland, of Cluny KC, said:
I am very saddened to hear of the passing of Lord Wallace. His is
a story of lifelong public service, undertaken with dedication,
decency and compassion, for which we should all be grateful. He
served as the first Deputy First Minister of Scotland to
three First Ministers, was acting First Minister of Scotland, and
Advocate General. He also served in both chambers of the UK
Parliament, and as a Member of the Scottish Parliament for
Orkney.
He performed all these roles with distinction, and earned the
respect and admiration of colleagues across both parliaments and
beyond. He played a vital part, through many roles, in delivering
and securing the devolution settlement.
Only in December, I had the pleasure of welcoming Lord Wallace
back to Dover House to deliver a fascinating lecture, sharing his
insights and reflections on the Scottish and UK Parliaments, and
the journey of devolution in Scotland. The event was hugely
valued by the civil servants who attended.
I send my condolences and best wishes to Lord Wallace's family at
this difficult time.
