House of Commons tributes to Lord Wallace of Tankerness

Today, Monday 2nd February, tributes were made in the House of Commons to mark the death of Jim Wallace, Lord Wallace of Tankerness, who passed away last Thursday.

Speaking in the House of Commons, the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer said:

“I offer my deep condolences on behalf of the government in relation to Lord Wallace. He was a kind and decent man and I know that he will be sorely missed on the Liberal Democrat benches. May he rest in peace.”

Leader of the Liberal Democrats, Sir Ed Davey said:

“With your indulgence, can I start by paying tribute to my friend Jim Wallace, one of the great Scottish liberals, and offer our thoughts and prayers to his family and many friends. Jim devoted his life to public service, his Christian faith and the cause of liberalism. His judgement was not always impeccable, for it was Jim who gave me my first job in politics. We will miss him.”

The Speaker of the House, Sir Lindsay Hoyle said:

“I’d like to pay tribute to Lord Wallace of Tankerness who died last week. Lord Wallace was previously elected as MP for Orkney and Shetland in 1983. He joined the Scottish Parliament in 1999, where he held the role of First Minister on three occasions. On behalf of the House I offer my condolences to his family and friends.”

Orkney and Shetland MP, Alistair Carmichael said:

“Can I thank you Mr Speaker for your words about the late Lord Wallace of Tankerness. Jim Wallace was not just my predecessor in this House, but he was a friend and in fact my London flatmate for many years. I’m sure that his family and all those who mourn his passing, especially in the Northern Isles, will appreciate your acknowledgement of his contribution.”