Dumfries and Galloway constituency MP Alister Jack, who has completed a series of formal duties following the death of Queen Elizabeth, has pledged support for the new King.
The local representative at Westminster officiated both as recently re-appointed Scottish Secretary and as a long-serving member of the Royal Company of Archers, the monarch’s ceremonial body guard in Scotland.
Like many current and former senior parliamentarians, Mr Jack attended the Service of Reflection in St Paul’s Cathedral on the day after The Queen’s passing.
Mr Jack, a privy counsellor, had a formal role on Saturday September 10 at St James’s Palace in London when he attended the Accession Council for King Charles and as Scottish Secretary was a designated witness of The King’s Oath ensuring the security of the Church of Scotland.
Back north of the border the following day, Mr Jack attended the Proclamation of King Charles at the Mercat Cross in Edinburgh and on the Monday was amongst a small official group, including the First Minister, meeting the monarch from his plane at the city’s airport, later attending the special service in St Giles’ Cathedral and witnessing a Motion of Condolence at the Scottish Parliament.
On the Tuesday, the Scottish Secretary was in the convoy following The Queen’s coffin from Holyroodhouse to Edinburgh Airport before she was flown south to London.
During the 10-day period of national mourning, Mr Jack attended a reception for overseas heads of state and guests at Buckingham Palace and Monday’s historic state funeral at Westminster Abbey.
One of the most solemn and memorable events for the MP was standing guard last Thursday beside The Queen’s coffin during her four-day lying-in state in Westminster Hall, which drew queues, at times, stretching up to five miles.
He officiated, largely head bowed, with Cabinet colleague Ben Wallace, the defence secretary, in their voluntary role as members of the Royal Company of Archers.
Mr Jack, a body guard for 14 years, said: “It was a very moving experience and a privilege to be able to pay tribute to The Queen in this way. Her contribution to our country and other parts of the world has been widely acknowledged.
“Many of my constituents have spoken warmly of Her Majesty in recent days and her visits to Dumfries and Galloway. During more than 70 years as Queen she clearly created many happy memories amongst people locally. She is especially fondly remembered for her compassion, humour and warmth.
“As we pass this important milestone in our national life, I believe I speak for many in south-west Scotland in wishing King Charles well and offering our whole-hearted support.”