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Scotland's major political parties suspend election campaigning out of respect following death of Prince Philip


By Scott Maclennan

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Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, visits his former school as it marked it's 80th anniversary in 2014.
Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, visits his former school as it marked it's 80th anniversary in 2014.

The four biggest parties in Scotland have all suspended election campaigning with "immediate effect" following the death of HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.

The SNP, Scottish Labour and the Scottish Liberal Democrats have all confirmed that they would stop work out of “respect.”

Earlier, Buckingham Palace revealed that the Duke “passed away peacefully this morning at Windsor Castle” – he had not long returned home after a period in hospital.

The statement read: “It is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen has announced the death of her beloved husband, His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.”

Conservative candidate for Nairn and Inverness Edward Mountain met the Duke when he served in the army and confirmed he too would stop work.

“I am desperately sad to hear of the news this morning," he said.

"I met Prince Philip on numerous occasions when I was in the army. I was always amazed at his level of commitment to supporting the Queen.

“I think the country owes him a debt of gratitude for all that he has done.”

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon was among those paying tribute to the Duke, writing online: “I am saddened by news that the Duke of Edinburgh has died.

“I send my personal and deepest condolences – and those at the Scottish Government and the people of Scotland – to Her Majesty The Queen and her family.”

Conservative leader Douglas Ross said: "In the middle of a political campaign, this is a reminder of what’s most important in life.

"We have lost a tremendous public servant who for decades served his Queen and country. My heartfelt condolences are with Her Majesty and all of the Royal Family."

Labour leader Anas Sarwar said: "Scotland is today mourning the loss of the Duke of Edinburgh - a dedicated public servant.

"My thoughts are with the entire Royal Family and Her Majesty The Queen, following the death of her beloved husband.

"On behalf of the Scottish Labour Party, I offer our deepest sympathies."

The Liberal Democrat leader Willie Rennie said: "This marks the end of an outstanding life of 99 years and decades of outstanding public service too. Often colourful, sometimes controversial but always dedicated to his wife, The Queen, and to his country.

"The Duke of Edinburgh scheme in particular will be a specific legacy that will endure for years. It enriched the lives of young people which has a worth before any monetary value."

Council lowers flags at buildings

Prince Philip dies aged 99


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