Cole-Hamilton marks passing of Jeane Freeman

Responding to the news that former Scottish health secretary Jeane Freeman has died at the age of 72, Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton said:

“Jeane’s passing brings me profound sadness.

“As Health Secretary during the global pandemic, there can be little doubt that she bore the heaviest burden that anyone in that role has ever been asked to bear. In those early days of Covid, she and I spoke almost every day and I was always struck by her inclusivity and her generosity with her time. Her decisive actions will have undoubtedly saved a lot of lives.

“From her efforts to rehabilitate former offenders, to the delivery of a devolved social security agency, she always worked extremely hard in the service of the people of Scotland. For that she earned the respect and thanks of so many.

“My thoughts are with Susan and her loved ones at this difficult time.”