UK News 12-10-2000 "Father of the Nation" Dewar Dies, Aged 63 who: First Minister Donald Dewar what: Dies, aged 63 where: Western General Hospital, GLASGOW when: Yesterday snippet: "The political world was shaken yesterday by the death of Donald Dewar, Scotland`s First Minister," reports The Independent this morning. Mr Dewar, aged 63, was taken ill on Tuesday afternoon following a brain haemorrhage. He lost consciousness later that evening and his family took the decision yesterday morning to turn off his life support following irreversible brain damage. "Tributes poured in for a man described as one of the last gentlemen in politics," says Nick Britten in The Telegraph, "and who was dubbed the `Father of the Nation` for his tireless work in helping to secure devolution." "The Scottish Parliament is his achievement, it will be his testament," said Tony Blair. "History will remember him for that and for his passionate belief in social justice." "His passion for Scotland and all things Scottish was renowned," said a statement from Buckingham Palace. "Her Majesty has greatly valued his wise counsel and knows how much he will be missed." "I know Her Majesty will be greatly devastated," added Prince Charles in his own statement. The search is now on for Mr Dewar`s successor, says The Scotsman. "A behind-the-scenes deal to anoint Henry McLeish without an election was privately rejected," says the report. Supporters of finance minister Jack McConnell are expected to nominate him for the Labour leadership. [... more]

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