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The King led tributes to Mr Salmond, who led Scotland to the brink of independence in the historic 2014 referendum.
In a message issued by Buckingham Palace, the King said he and the Queen were “greatly saddened” to hear of Mr Salmond’s “sudden death”.
Image:
A book of condolence has opened at the Scottish parliament. Pic: Scottish parliament
A book of condolence has opened at the Scottish parliament for visitors to leave messages that will be sent to Mr Salmond’s family.
Read more:
The political titan that was Alex Salmond
Scottish independence is looking for a new star
Book of condolence opens at Scottish parliament
Mr Salmond served as first minister of Scotland from 2007 to 2014 and was leader of the SNP on two occasions, from 1990 to 2000 and from 2004 to 2014.
Image:
Mr Salmond and Ms Sturgeon pictured in May 2013 while launching a paper on the economic case for independence. Pic: PA
He launched his rival Scottish independence party, Alba, in 2021 after his relationship with his successor Nicola Sturgeon fractured.
The pair never spoke again.
A Scottish government spokesperson said: “The loss of a loved one is a difficult time for any family, made more complex when they have passed away overseas.
“Over the last few days the Scottish government and UK government have been engaging with Alex Salmond’s family and working closely together in accordance with their wishes, to ensure the swift and dignified repatriation of the former first minister to Scotland.
“Having explored a number of options, the family have now made arrangements for this to take place with the support of a private citizen.
“The Scottish government continues to engage with Mr Salmond’s family, and we stand ready to offer further advice and support, should it be required.”
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Publish date : 2024-10-16 04:03:00
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