British politicians and commentators are paying tribute to former Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond following his death on Saturday.
Keir Starmer called Salmond a “monumental figure in Scottish and British politics”.
The First Minister said: “For more than 30 years Alex Salmond was a monumental figure in Scottish and British politics. He left a lasting legacy.
“As Scotland’s first minister, he cared deeply about Scotland’s heritage, history and culture, as well as the communities he represented as an MP and MSP throughout his years of service.
“My thoughts are with those who knew him, his family and his loved ones. On behalf of the British Government, I extend my condolences to them today.”
Conservative leader Rishi Sunak wrote on X: “Alex Salmond was a huge figure in our politics. I disagreed with him on constitutional issues, but I couldn’t deny his debating skills or his passion for politics. May he rest in peace.”
John Swinney, Scotland’s First Minister, said: “I am deeply shocked and saddened by the untimely death of former First Minister Alex Salmond, and my deepest sympathies go to Alex’s wife Moira and his family.” said.
“Over the years, Alex has made a huge contribution to political life in Scotland, across the UK and beyond.
“Alex worked tirelessly and fought fearlessly for the country he loved and for its independence. He brought the Scottish National Party from the fringes of Scottish politics into government and moved Scotland closer to becoming an independent nation.
“We will have more opportunities to reflect over the coming days, but today all our thoughts go out to Alex’s family and his many friends across the political spectrum.”
Scottish Conservative leader Russell Findlay said he was shocked and saddened to hear of Mr Salmond’s sudden death.
“Regardless of our political beliefs, we can all respect his dedication to public service as an MSP, Member of Parliament and Scotland’s first minister,” he added.
“He will be remembered as a formidable and impressive statesman who had a lasting impact on our country.
“The thoughts of everyone in the Scottish Conservative Party are with his family and friends.”
Ian Murray, the Scottish Secretary of State, said: “The impact Alex Salmond has had on Scottish and national politics cannot be overstated.”
“He served the country he loved as prime minister and will be missed by many.
“My thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time. Rest in Peace.”
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Former SNP MP Joanna Cherry, who served with Mr Salmond, wrote of X: Alex Salmond was one of the most talented politicians of his generation, and by any measure the best of our first ministers. He changed the face of Scottish politics.
“Sadly, he was exploited by many former comrades and I am especially sorry that he did not live to see the proof of his vindication. Above all, I consider him a source of inspiration and He will be remembered as a loyal friend. My deepest condolences to Moira, his family and all who loved him.”
Douglas Ross, former leader of the Scottish Conservative Party, wrote in X that Salmond had a “huge influence” on Scotland as a whole.
She added: “Although we had opposing political views, he was a hugely important figure in Scottish politics over many years.
“Our thoughts are with Moira, his family and friends at this difficult time.”
Former prime minister Humza Yousaf said he had “obviously had some disagreements over recent years” with Mr Salmond, but praised the “huge contribution he has made to Scottish and British politics”.
Mr Yousaf also said Mr Salmond had helped “turn the SNP into the dominant political force it is today”.
Andrew Neil, former editor of the Sunday Times and former chairman of the Spectator, wrote of X: I had lunch with him in London just three weeks ago and it was a great lunch as Alex deserves – and he was in great shape. Full of planning and intrigue. He even paid!
“His upbeat mood makes this all the more surprising and sad. He and I couldn’t be more different in terms of Scotland’s place in the United Kingdom, but we… There was mutual respect and he knew that I always regarded him as the most accomplished and important Scottish politician of our time.
“He was also a great mate. It was always a pleasure to be with him. He will be greatly missed and so will Scotland. My condolences to his wonderful wife.”
