Scottish Labour MSP Jackie Baillie given damehood in King Charles' Birthday Honours

Jackie Baillie has become the first sitting MSP to be given a damehood or a knighthood.

The Scottish Labour deputy leader was given the award as part of the king’s birthday honours for political and public service.

The veteran politician has been the MSP for Dumbarton since the Scottish Parliament was established in 1999.

Baillie, who has been the deputy leader of Scottish Labour since 2020, said the honour was “totally unexpected” and described the news of the award as a “shock”.

She said: “I understand I was nominated by constituents, and when you have represented people for 24 years this is such a humbling experience.

“And so I was delighted to accept on that basis.”

Baillie joined a host of Scots to receive awards, including those involved in the arts, sports and media.

More than 1,000 people were given awards as part of the King's Birthday Honours. — More than 1,000 people were given awards as part of the King’s Birthday Honours. Hugo Burnand/Royal Household 2023

Former Scotland and Rangers player John Greig was made a CBE while wheelchair tennis star and Paralympic gold medal winner Gordon Reid has become an OBE.

And in the arts world, chief officer and artistic director of the Scottish Ballet, Christopher Hampson and Scottish Opera chair Peter Lawson are both being made CBEs.

Elsewhere, Scottish broadcaster Ken Bruce has become an MBE for service to radio, autism awareness and to charity.

Fellow broadcaster Sally Magnusson is made an MBE for services to people with dementia and their carers.

Transport Scotland director Hugh Gillies also became an OBE for services to transport during Operation Unicorn following the Queen’s death.

Scotland’s First Minister Humza Yousaf said: “Those recognised have made outstanding contributions to communities across Scotland and beyond. Their service and dedication make our country a better place for everyone and I am pleased to see this has been recognised.

“I also want to congratulate those personnel who have been awarded The King’s Fire, Police or Ambulance Service Medals.

“Scotland’s emergency services keep us safe every day of the year and serve our communities with distinction. Their hard work and dedication is deeply appreciated.”

Scottish secretary Alister Jack said: “My warmest congratulations go to all the Scottish recipients of the King’s Birthday honours.

“Scots are well represented in His Majesty’s first Honours list, which showcases the best of Scottish talent – including sport, the arts, community and education.”