With great sadness I write with the news of the death of Rt Hon Michael Ancram, Marquess of Lothian, MP for Devizes from 1992 until 2010.
Many of you knew Michael. He was a very popular local MP, and his wife Jane was also a much loved presence in the constituency.
Michael’s career in Parliament, spanning 3 decades, was distinguished. He was a minister in the Scotland Office and the Northern Ireland Office in the Thatcher and Major governments, in the latter role paving the way for the peace eventually concluded in 1998.
But it was in opposition after 1997 that Michael’s skills - principled and emollient - came to the fore. He served as Party chairman under William Hague and as Deputy Leader to Iain Duncan Smith and Michael Howard. In this role he helped ensure our Party survived the long years of opposition and rebuilt with its principles and organisation intact.
Michael was a man of great personal charm; an accomplished musician; a devoted countryman and - for a Scot - a proud adopted Wiltshireman; a respected Conservative and a great British patriot.
I know I speak for everyone in the old Devizes Constituency Conservative Association in mourning his passing and marking his long life lived well in the public service.
Danny Kruger
MP for Devizes 2019-2024
PS I am in touch with Michael’s family about plans for a memorial service and will pass on details when I have them.
