A local MSP has praised MP, MEP and MSP Winnie Ewing who died yesterday.
Winnie famously won the Hamilton by-election for the SNP in 1967, marking the party’s main breakthrough in electoral politics. Initially making her mark in the Westminster Parliament, Winnie was then elected to the European Parliament as an MEP where she affectionately became known as Madam Ecosse.
Winnie was then later elected to the first elections of the Scottish Parliament and became the initial presiding officer where she gave the famous quote that “The Scottish Parliament, which adjourned on 25th March, 1707, is hereby reconvened”.
Natalie Don MSP said: “I am saddened to hear of the death of Winnie Ewing, a towering figure in the history of the SNP and Scottish politics.
“Winnie Ewing was an icon within Scottish politics and particularly within the SNP. She did so much to re-invigorate the belief that Scotland should rule itself and had a remarkable career in three parliaments.
“Everyone is aware of Winnie’s words when she first arrived at Westminster in 1967 where she said, ”Stop the World, Scotland wants to get on!”.
“She has been an inspiration for generations of politicians and those active in Scottish politics, standing firm in her belief of Scottish independence and inspiring others to follow in her footsteps.
“I had the pleasure of meeting Winnie several years ago and enjoyed listening to her talk about her political life and it was clear she still had that spark that drove her belief in Scotland’s Independence.
“My condolences go out to her family and friends.”