Alistair Darling: Veteran Labour politician and former chancellor dies aged 70
Former Chancellor Alistair Darling has died aged 70, a spokesperson on behalf of his family said.
He served as Chancellor of the Exchequer under Prime Minister Gordon Brown from 2007 to 2010.
The veteran Labour politician steered the UK through the 2008 financial crisis.
Lord Darling served in cabinet for 13 years under Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, following the Labour Party's landslide victory in 1997.
Lord Darling died after a "short spell" in hospital, a spokesperson for his family said.
PA
He died after a "short spell" in hospital, a spokesperson for his family said.
They said in a statement: “The death of Alistair Darling, a former chancellor of the exchequer and long-serving member of the Labour cabinet, was announced in Edinburgh today.
“Mr Darling, the much-loved husband of Margaret and beloved father of Calum and Anna, died after a short spell in Western General hospital under the wonderful care of the cancer team.”
Tributes have begun pouring in for the former politician, with Labour Leader Sir Keir Starmer saying: "I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Alistair Darling. My heart goes out to his family, particularly Maggie, Calum and Anna, whom he loved so dearly.
"Alistair lived a life devoted to public service. He will be remembered as the Chancellor whose calm expertise and honesty helped to guide Britain through the tumult of the global financial crisis. He was a lifelong advocate for Scotland and the Scottish people and his greatest professional pride came from representing his constituents in Edinburgh.
"I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have benefited from Alistair’s counsel and friendship. He was always at hand to provide advice built on his decades of experience - always with his trademark wry, good humour.
"Alistair will be missed by all those whose lives he touched. His loss to the Labour Party, his friends and his family is immeasurable."
SNP Leader and Scottish First Minister Humza Yousaf said: "I am deeply saddened to hear of Alistair's passing.
"He dedicated his life to public service and was a giant of Scottish politics.
"My thoughts with his wife Margaret, children, family, friends and colleagues at this sad time."
Veteran Labour MP John McDonnell added: "So sorry to hear that Alistair Darling has died.
"We may have at times differed on economic strategy but he was always generous of spirit and I enjoyed his quick wit in even the most challenging of times.
"I send my condolences and deepest sympathy to his family and friends."