Former Conservative Party deputy leader, Michael Ancram, has passed away at the age of 79, as confirmed by his family. Ancram held significant roles within the Conservative Party under leaders Iain Duncan Smith and Michael Howard during the early 2000s. With a political career spanning over 50 years, he served as shadow foreign secretary and became a Lords member in 2010. Ancram’s family shared that he passed away in hospital after a brief illness, surrounded by loved ones on Tuesday.
Russell Findlay, the new Scottish Conservative leader, extended his condolences online, describing Ancram as a “first-rate politician and a gentleman.” Lord Donald Cameron, Ancram’s nephew and former Scotland Office minister, also paid tribute, highlighting his uncle’s warmth, humour, and inspiration. Jackson Carlaw, former interim leader of the Scottish Tories, praised Ancram as a politician of charm, principle, and duty, acknowledging his dedicated service to the country.
Michael Ancram began his political career as an MP for Berwickshire and East Lothian in 1974 but later returned to Parliament as the representative for Edinburgh South after defeating Gordon Brown. He then served as MP for Devizes from 1992 to 2010. Upon retiring from the House of Commons, Ancram entered the House of Lords in November 2010 as Baron Kerr of Monteviot, following a life peerage. His passing has been met with tributes and expressions of sorrow from various political figures and colleagues.
In the wake of his death, memories of Ancram’s contributions to the Conservative Party and British politics have resurfaced, with many remembering him as a man of integrity and dedication. His influence and impact over the years have left a lasting legacy within the political sphere. Ancram’s passing marks the end of an era for the Conservative Party, as they mourn the loss of a respected and esteemed figure. May he rest in peace, his memory cherished by all who knew him.