Scotland mourns the loss of former Deputy First Minister Lord Jim Wallace, who passed away at the age of 71. His contributions to Scottish politics and society were profound, and he is remembered for his commitment to liberal values.
Remembering Lord Jim Wallace
Jim Wallace’s influence extended across party lines. Alex Cole-Hamilton, a current member of the Liberal Democrats, described Wallace as “one of the finest liberals our party has ever produced.” Cole-Hamilton emphasized Wallace’s integrity, calm judgement, and commitment to fairness and respect for communities.
Early Life and Education
Born in Annan, located in Dumfries and Galloway, Wallace attended Annan Academy. He furthered his education at Cambridge and Edinburgh universities. In 1979, he was called to the bar, primarily practicing civil law before becoming a Queen’s Counsel (QC) in 1997.
Political Career
Wallace served as the Deputy First Minister of Scotland, where he was pivotal in shaping policy and governance. He was respected not just within his party, but also among political adversaries for his principled approach. His tenure demonstrated a strong commitment to the rule of law and liberal values.
Personal Life and Legacy
- Wallace’s father was an elder in the Church of Scotland, intertwining his religious and political careers.
- In 2021, he served as the moderator of the Church of Scotland.
His passing marks a significant loss for both the Liberal Democrats and the broader Scottish community. As the tributes reflect, Scotland is indeed a better country because of Lord Jim Wallace’s contributions and legacy.
