Alex Salmond death – latest: Starmer leads tributes for ex-Scottish first minister

Former Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond has passed away at the age of 69.

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Many tributes have been shared in memory of Alex Salmond, the former Scottish first minister, who passed away at the age of 69.

The leader of the Alba Party was the First Minister of Scotland from 2007 to 2014. He also held the position of leader of the Scottish National Party twice—first from 1990 to 2000 and again from 2004 to 2014.

He died on Saturday following a speech he delivered in North Macedonia.

Sir Keir Starmer has paid homage to Mr. Salmond, calling him an influential presence in Scottish and UK politics for over three decades, and noted that he has created a significant legacy.

In a message, the British prime minister expressed, "I am thinking of all those who were close to him, including his family and friends. On behalf of the UK government, I extend our heartfelt sympathies to them today."

Scotland’s First Minister, John Swinney, expressed that he is "profoundly shocked and saddened" by the passing of Mr. Salmond, who "bravely championed" the cause of Scottish independence.

Rishi Sunak, the head of the Conservative Party, commended Mr. Salmond, referring to him as a "significant presence in our political landscape."

Anas Sarwar, the leader of Scottish Labour, reflected on Mr. Salmond’s long-standing role in politics, noting that he has been a key figure for more than 30 years.

Flags Lowered As Scottish Parliament Offers Condolences

The Presiding Officer of the Scottish Parliament has expressed her sympathy to the family and friends of Alex Salmond, stating that flags at the Scottish Parliament have been lowered in his honor.

Alison Johnstone expressed her heartfelt condolences on behalf of the Scottish Parliament following the unfortunate news of Alex Salmond’s passing. Salmond served as the First Minister of Scotland from 2007 to 2014. She extended her deepest sympathies to his wife Moira, as well as to his family and friends during this challenging period.

"We're keeping you in our thoughts. The flags outside Parliament have been lowered to honor you."

Sure! Here’s a rephrased version of your text: Tara Cobham - October 12, 2024, 7:01 PM

Former Scotland First Minister Humza Yousaf has recognized the significant impact that Alex Salmond has had on both Scottish and UK politics.

In a message on X, Mr. Yousaf expressed: “Although Alex and I have had our disagreements over the past few years, there’s no denying the significant impact he has had on politics in Scotland and the UK. He played a crucial role in turning the SNP into the leading political power it is now.”

"I'm very sorry for the loss experienced by his family and friends."

Tara Cobham, 12th October 2024, 6:59 PM.

SNP Calls Salmond A 'Pillar Of Independence'

The Scottish National Party has honored its former leader, calling him “a giant in the fight for independence.”

Mr. Salmond was the First Minister of Scotland from 2007 until 2014 and led the Scottish National Party (SNP) twice: first from 1990 to 2000 and again from 2004 to 2014.

In a message on X, the SNP announced: "Alex Salmond, who was the former leader of the SNP and served as Scotland's First Minister, has passed away."

His leadership elevated the SNP into the spotlight and integrated it into the Scottish Government.

"He was a giant in the fight for independence."

“We're keeping Moira and her family in our thoughts.”

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Former Scots First Minister Alex Salmond Dies At 69

Sure! Here's a rewritten version of the blog section in more casual English: Tara Cobham, on October 12, 2024, at 6:38 PM.

Swinney Honors Salmond's Fearless Fight For Scotland

Scotland’s First Minister, John Swinney, has honored Alex Salmond, recognizing him as a dedicated politician who passionately and valiantly advocated for the nation he cherished and its independence.

In a statement, Mr. Swinney expressed his profound shock and sadness over the premature passing of former First Minister Alex Salmond. He offered his heartfelt condolences to Alex’s wife, Moira, and to the rest of his family.

Alex dedicated himself wholeheartedly and bravely defended the nation he cherished, striving for its freedom. He transformed the Scottish National Party from a marginal presence in Scottish politics to a key player in the government, bringing Scotland to the brink of achieving independence.

In the days ahead, we'll have plenty of time to think things over, but for now, our focus is on Alex's family, as well as his numerous friends from all political backgrounds.

Tara Cobham published an article on October 12, 2024, at 6:30 PM.

Scottish Conservative Leader Calls Salmond 'Formidable'

The leader of the Scottish Conservatives, Russell Findlay, remarked that Alex Salmond will go down in history as a “strong and remarkable” political figure.

In a statement, Mr. Findlay expressed his disbelief and sorrow at the unexpected news of Alex Salmond's death.

Regardless of our political opinions, we can all appreciate his commitment to serving the public as a Member of the Scottish Parliament, a Member of Parliament, and as Scotland's First Minister.

He will be remembered as a powerful and remarkable leader who left a significant mark on our nation.

"The Scottish Conservative Party sends its heartfelt condolences to his family and friends."

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"Scottish Secretary: Salmond's Impact On Politics Unmatched"

Scottish Secretary Ian Murray stated that it's hard to exaggerate the influence Alex Salmond has had on Scotland and its political landscape.

Mr. Murray added, "He dedicated himself to the country he cherished as First Minister, and he will be greatly missed by countless people."

"My heart goes out to his family and friends during this challenging time. May he find peace."

Tara Cobham, October 12, 2024, 6:22 PM.

Sarwar Calls Salmond A Key Political Figure

Anas Sarwar, the leader of Scottish Labour, commended Mr. Salmond, highlighting him as “a key player in politics for more than thirty years.”

In a statement, Mr. Sarwar expressed, "The unfortunate news of Alex Salmond's death today will be a surprise to everyone who knew him in Scotland, throughout the UK, and even further away."

"We are thinking of his family and friends during this tough time, and on behalf of Scottish Labour, I extend our heartfelt sympathies to everyone who is grieving his passing."

"Alex played a key role in politics for more than thirty years, and his impact on Scotland's political scene is truly significant."

Tara Cobham, on October 12, 2024, at 6:20 PM.

Alex Salmond, Ex-Scotland First Minister, Dies At 69

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Starmer Pays Tribute To Salmond's Impact On Politics

Sir Keir Starmer has been at the forefront of paying tribute to Alex Salmond, describing him as a "significant figure in both Scottish and UK politics."

The British Prime Minister remarked, "For over three decades, Alex Salmond played a significant role in both Scottish and UK politics. He has created a lasting impact that will be remembered."

As Scotland's First Minister, he was passionate about the country's heritage, history, and culture. He also dedicated many years to representing the communities he served as both an MP and MSP.

"My heart goes out to everyone who knew him, including his family and loved ones. On behalf of the UK government, I extend our sympathies to them today."

Sure! Here’s a rephrased version of the blog section: Tara Cobham October 12, 2024, 6:17 PM