Lord Jim Wallace, Scotland’s First Deputy First Minister, Dies Aged 71
EDINBURGH, 29 January 2026 – Lord Jim Wallace, a foundational figure in Scottish politics and the nation’s first Deputy First Minister, has died at the age of 71. His family confirmed his death followed complications from a surgical procedure at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh last week.
A Pillar of Scottish Devolution
Lord Wallace, who served as Deputy First Minister from 1999 to 2005, was widely regarded as a leading architect of the modern devolved Scotland. First elected as the MP for Orkney and Shetland in 1983, he transitioned to the new Scottish Parliament in 1999 as the MSP for Orkney. As leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats from 1992, he played a central role in the Scottish Constitutional Convention and the campaign for a ‘Yes-Yes’ vote in the 1997 devolution referendum.
Key Facts & Political Career
| Role | Tenure & Details |
|---|---|
| Deputy First Minister of Scotland | 1999 – 2005. Served twice as Acting First Minister in 2000 and 2001. |
| Scottish Liberal Democrat Leader | 1992 – 2005. Led the party through the devolution era. |
| MP for Orkney & Shetland | 1983 – 2001 |
| MSP for Orkney | 1999 – 2007 |
| Ministerial Portfolios | Justice Minister; Enterprise & Lifelong Learning Minister. |
| Later Career | Advocate General for Scotland; Liberal Democrat Leader in the House of Lords. |
Tributes to a “Major Figure”
Politicians from across the spectrum have paid tribute to Lord Wallace’s decency, intellect, and dedication to public service. He was described as a “major figure in Scottish politics” who worked alongside Donald Dewar to build the foundations of Holyrood. First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said his commitment to Scotland was “unwavering,” while UK Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey hailed him as a “kind, principled and immensely effective politician.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the cause of Jim Wallace’s death?
Lord Wallace died following complications from a surgical procedure at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh. His family stated his death was sudden and has left them shocked.
What is Jim Wallace’s legacy in Scottish politics?
He is remembered as a key architect of Scottish devolution, the first person to hold the office of Deputy First Minister, and a steady hand who served as Acting First Minister on two occasions. His work on the Calman Commission also helped extend the Scottish Parliament’s powers.
Did Jim Wallace have a title?
Yes. After leaving the Scottish Parliament, he was made a life peer and sat in the House of Lords as Lord Wallace of Tankerness.