The First Ministers of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have paid tribute to Prince Philip following the announcement of his death at the age of 99.
Scottish leader, Nicola Sturgeon, tweeted her condolences as news came through, saying ”I am saddened by news that the Duke of Edinburgh has died. I send my personal and deepest condolences – and those the Scottish government and the people of Scotland – to Her Majesty The Queen and her family.”
Mark Drakeford, First Minister of Wales, said on Twitter that he was ”Incredibly sad to hear of the passing of HRH The Duke of Edinburgh. He served the crown with selfless devotion and will be sorely missed by the people of Wales and the many organisations he supported. My condolences to Her Majesty the Queen and the family during this sad time.”
The First Minister of Northern Ireland, Arlene Foster, released a video message in which she spoke of her sorrow at the passing of the Prince and offered her condolences to The Queen, adding ”Prince Philip was widely respected for his active and dedicated to the country and for his steadfast support to Her Majesty The Queen throughout her reign.” Mrs Foster also praised his work with young people, saying ”he had a profound and positive impact on thousands of our young people who found their purpose, passion and place in the world through participation in the Duke of Edinburgh Award.”
The Deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland, Michelle O’Neill of Sinn Fein, also tweeted ”As Deputy First Minister I wish to extend my sincere condolences to Queen Elizabeth and her family on the death of her husband Prince Phillip.”
The UK Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, paid tribute to the Prince in a special speech outside Downing Street in which he praised him for his courage and devotion to duty. The Leader of the Opposition, Sir Keir Starmer, said the UK had lost ”an extraordinary public servant”. The leader of the Liberal Democrats, Sir Ed Davey, said ”Prince Philip dedicated his life to our country. We will always be grateful for his amazing service.”
Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh, died on April 9th 2021 at Windsor Castle.
