Winnie Ewing dies aged 93
She was the SNP's first female Parliamentarian.
Last updated 22nd Jun 2023
Winnie Ewing - the SNP's first female parliamentarian - has died at the age of 93.
She is best-known for winning the Hamilton by-election in 1967 and declared: "Stop the world, Scotland wants to get on."
A statement issued on behalf of her family said: "Mrs Ewing, generally considered the most important Scottish politician of her generation, served as an MP, MEP and MSP, and was the first presiding officer of the reconvened Scottish Parliament in 1999.
"She sparked the revival of the SNP's fortunes, which continue to this day, with her victory in the Hamilton by-election of 1967.
"Mrs Ewing died on Wednesday aged 92, surrounded by her family.
"She is survived by children Fergus, Annabelle and Terry, and grandchildren Natasha, Ciara, Jamie, and Sophie. She also had a deep affection for daughters-in-law Fiona and Jacqui.
"She was a loving and devoted wife to Stewart Martin Ewing, who died in 2003 aged 76.
"It would be appreciated if the family could be accorded privacy at this time."
First Minister Humza Yousaf paid tribute to Winnie Ewing.
He tweeted: "I am heartbroken that we have lost a shining light of our party.
"Without Winnie's trailblazing victory in the 1967 Hamilton by-election & without her dedication to the cause of independence, @theSNP would simply not have achieved the success we have.
"Winnie, more than anyone else, ensured our party was outward looking. She promoted Scotland's interests in Europe over many years. Thank you Madame Ecosse for your service to our party & country.
"My thoughts & prayers with Winnie's family, especially Fergus, Annabelle & Terry.