Parliament pays tribute to former MP Jim Wallace
TRIBUTES were paid in the House of Commons on Monday to mark the death of former Orkney and Shetland MP Jim Wallace, who passed away last Thursday.
Wallace, who held the seat for the Liberal Democrats for 18 years between 1981 and 2001, was also elected MSP for Orkney and became deputy first minister of Scotland.
As Lord Wallace of Tankerness, he entered the House of Lords in 2007.
Speaking in the Commons, prime minister Sir Keir Starmer offered his deep condolences on behalf of the government.
“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,” the prime minister said.
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.”
Speaker of the House of Commons Sir Lindsay Hoyle also offered his condolences to Jim Wallace’s friends and family on behalf of the House.
“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.”
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Northern Isles MP Alistair Carmichael responded by saying: “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.”
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