Commenting on information that the previous First Minister and SNP Chief Alex Salmond has died, First Minister John Swinney stated:

“I’m deeply shocked and saddened on the premature dying of the previous First Minister Alex Salmond and I lengthen my deepest condolences to Alex’s spouse Moira and to his household.

“Over a few years, Alex made an infinite contribution to political life – not simply inside Scotland, however throughout the UK and past.

“Alex labored tirelessly and fought fearlessly for the nation that he liked and for her Independence. He took the Scottish Nationwide Occasion from the fringes of Scottish politics into Authorities and led Scotland so near turning into an Unbiased nation.

“There will probably be rather more alternative to replicate within the coming days, however immediately all of our ideas are with Alex’s household, and his many mates and proper throughout the political spectrum.”