Today, as Jim Wallace is laid to rest in Kirkwall, all of us at Reprieve mourn the loss of a remarkable leader who served as Chair of our Board of Trustees from 2016-2021.
As Deputy First Minister of Scotland, he was known as a supremely principled and effective politician, esteemed by his Liberal Democrat colleagues and members of rival parties alike. His consensus-building skills made him well-suited for coalition government, and he was asked to step in as First Minister no fewer than three times. Lord Wallace then brought his steadfast commitment to human rights, compassion, political insight and sharp wit to Reprieve.
He made a huge contribution to our fight against the death penalty, torture and detention without trial.
There will be a Memorial Service for Jim in Dunblane Cathedral, on Friday June 5, open to all.
