Alex Salmond's body to be returned to Scotland - with private individual paying for flight after request to use RAF rejected
A private person is covering the cost of a flight to bring Alex Salmond's body back home, as the Foreign Office turned down requests for the RAF to assist in the matter.
The former first minister and leader of the SNP suddenly collapsed and passed away after giving a speech on Scottish independence in North Macedonia this past Saturday.
The governments of the UK and Scotland had been discussing the restitution of Mr. Salmond's remains.
David Davis, a member of parliament from the Conservative Party and a close ally of Mr. Salmond, had been urging for the military's participation.
A private plane is currently being rented out, with the expenses covered by an individual. The flight is anticipated to arrive in Aberdeen.
On Wednesday afternoon, officials are working out the last details of the arrangements.
Kenny MacAskill, the temporary leader of the Alba Party, expressed that Mr. Salmond's wife and family are "extremely thankful" for the assistance they have received.
He mentioned that it greatly reassures Moira and the rest of the family to understand that he will be returning home to them soon.
Mr. MacAskill also conveyed the Salmond family's gratitude to the North Macedonian government for their swift actions in facilitating the return of Mr. Salmond's body, as well as to the Scottish and UK governments for their efforts in arranging his repatriation.
There were long conversations between Kate Forbes, Scotland's Deputy First Minister, and the UK government's minister for Europe.
There were worries about setting a new standard by having the RAF bring back the remains of individuals who were not part of the Royal Family.
Witnesses report that Mr. Salmond, a strong supporter of nationalism, leaned on a colleague during a lunch that took place after the Cultural Diplomacy summit in Ohrid on Saturday afternoon.
The family of the 69-year-old announced on Monday evening that the cause of death was a heart attack.
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The King paid tribute to Mr. Salmond, who played a crucial role in bringing Scotland close to independence during the landmark referendum in 2014.
In a statement from Buckingham Palace, the King expressed that he and the Queen were "deeply saddened" by the news of Mr. Salmond's "unexpected passing."
A condolence book has been established at the Scottish Parliament, allowing visitors to share messages that will be forwarded to Mr. Salmond's family.
Discover more: The influential figure that was Alex Salmond The quest for Scottish independence seeks a fresh leader A book of remembrance has been opened at the Scottish Parliament
Mr. Salmond was the First Minister of Scotland between 2007 and 2014. He also led the Scottish National Party (SNP) twice, first from 1990 to 2000 and then again from 2004 to 2014.
In 2021, he started his own party, Alba, which advocates for Scottish independence, following a breakdown in his relationship with his successor, Nicola Sturgeon.
The two never had another conversation.
A representative from the Scottish government stated: "Losing someone close is a challenging experience for any family, and it becomes even more complicated when they die in another country."
In recent days, both the Scottish and UK governments have been in contact with Alex Salmond's family, collaborating closely to honor their wishes and facilitate the respectful and timely return of the former first minister to Scotland.
After considering several possibilities, the family has now decided to move forward with the help of a private individual.
The Scottish government remains in contact with Mr. Salmond's family and is prepared to provide additional assistance and guidance if needed.
