Statement on the Repatriation of Alex Salmond

The family of Alex Salmond are able to advise that an agreement has been reached to charter a private plane, the costs of which will be paid for by a private citizen, for the purpose of transporting and returning the body of the Former First Minister The Rt Hon Alex Salmond from Ohrid, North Macedonia to Aberdeen. Further details on the flight will be made available in due course.

Acting Alba Party Leader Kenny MacAskill said:

"The family of Alex Salmond would like to put on record their appreciation to the North Macedonian Government for expediting the necessary procedures to allow Alex's body to be released. The family would also like to thank the UK and Scottish Governments for their endeavors to put in place the swift arrangements to bring Alex Salmond home to Scotland. The family are incredibly grateful for the support which is being provided by a private citizen to charter a private plane to allow Alex's body to come home to Scotland.

"It brings a great deal of comfort to Moira and other members of the family to know that he will soon be home with them.

"The family have asked that their privacy be respected at this time and will be making an announcement in due course about the funeral arrangements and a memorial service to honour the life of Alex Salmond."