Polls drives suspended as tributes are paid to duke
Political leaders from across the spectrum have paid tribute to the Duke of Edinburgh after his death at the age of 99.
In Scotland, election campaigning was immediately halted as the news came through from Buckingham Palace just after midday.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said she was “saddened” by the news and sent her “personal and deepest condolences, and those of the Scottish government and people of Scotland, to Her Majesty the Queen and her family”.
Speaking at a podium outside Downing Street, Boris Johnson said Philip would be remembered for his “steadfast support” of the Queen as well as his awards scheme which “inspired” countless young people.
The Prime Minister said: “He wasanenvironmentalist anda champion of the natural world long before it was fashionable.
“With his Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme he shaped and inspired the lives of countless young people and at literally tens of thousands of events he fostered their hopes and encouraged their ambitions.”
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said the United Kingdom has “lost an extraordinary public servant in Prince Philip”.
He said: “He will be remembered most of all for his extraordinary commitment and devotion to the Queen.”
Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey said the Duke “dedicated his life to our country” and “we will always be grateful for his amazing service”.
Mr Johnson’s predecessors in 10 Downing Street also paid tribute to Philip.
Tony Blair said the duke was a “man of foresight, determination and courage”.
“He was often way ahead of his time in protection of the environment, in reconciliation between religious faiths and of course in the creation of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, which remains one of the most innovative and effective programmes for the betterment of young people anywhere in the world,” the Labour ex-prime minister said.
David Cameron said Philip left an “incredible legacy”, including the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme.
Gordon Brown said he had benefited from the duke’s experience early in his career.
The former Labour prime minister said: “I was personally fortunate to benefit from the duke’s wisdom on many occasions, not least early on when
I was rector of Edinburgh University at the age of only 21 and he was the chancellor, and he gave good advice.”
Mr Brown added: “Like the whole of our country, I am grateful not just for the public service he gave but for his dedication of his life to our country.”
Theresa May said: “The nation and the entire Commonwealth owe Prince Philip an extraordinary debt of gratitude for a distinguished life of service to the Queen, our country and so many around the world.”
Sir John Major said it was “impossible to exaggerate” the role played by the duke in a lifetime of service to the monarchy and the nation.
“A distinguished naval officer, he was – for over 70 years – theballasttoourshipofstate,” Sir John said.
In Scotland, Ms Sturgeon led the tributes: “The Duke of Edinburgh had deep and longstanding ties to Scotland, attending school here at Gordonstoun and regularly holidaying at Balmoral Castle.
“From his patronage of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme to his close association with the University of Edinburgh as chancellor for over 50 years and his commitments to countless charities and organisations, Prince Philip’s long contribution to public life in Scotland will leave a profound mark on its people.”
But the First Minister has urged Scots not to lay floral tributes at Balmoral or the Palace of Holyroodhouse, as would be customary.
She added: “Online books of condolence will open in the coming days to allow people to pay their respects.
“In line with current restrictions, the Royal Household has requested that members of the public do not leave floral tributes or gather at the Palace of Holyroodhouse or Balmoral Castle at this time.
“The Palace has suggested that people could donate to charity instead, if they wish to do so.”
Scottish Tory leader Douglas Ross said his party will head back on to the campaign trail on Monday.
Mr 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.
“This is not the time for political campaigning. It is a time for national mourning.”
Scottish Greens co-leader Patrick Harvie said: “We recognise that the passing of the Duke of Edinburgh will be felt deeply by some across the country and express our sympathies with his family, who join many others who have lost loved ones in this last year.”