Colin Mackay insight: Christina McKelvie was full of fun and mischief, she'll be deeply missed by all

The Scottish Parliament is in mourning following the death of Christina McKelvie this morning.

MSPs will gather at 11.40am to pay tribute rather than question ministers. First Minister’s Questions will also be a more sombre affair.

Christina was one of the most liked and loved MSPs in this place. She was first elected in 2007 and her sense of fun and mischief was infectious. And she really was fun to be around. She could be fiercely debating with opposing MSPs one day and still get on with them the next.

Flags at the Scottish Parliament are at half mast following the death of Christina McKelvie STV News

She was a fierce campaigner for her constituents in Lanarkshire, a good minister in Government, she was passionate about her politics. She pulled back from ministerial duties last August after being diagnosed with secondary breast cancer. She had been through the treatment before and had rang the bell at the Beatson.

She often talked about her roots in Easterhouse and was immensely proud of her family, her two sons Lewis and Jack and was incredibly excited when she became a granny. She was also very proud of her partner, depute leader of the SNP, Keith Brown. He lovingly cared for her throughout her illness and made the announcement this morning.

Politics

First Minister pays tribute to SNP MSP Christina McKelvie following death at 57

McKelvie announced in August that she would be taking medical leave due to treatment for secondary breast cancer.

There will be extensive tributes in Parliament today, there is no need for me to go in to any more of that now, but Christina McKelvie will be missed by everyone in the Scottish Parliament.