Like many others, we were deeply saddened to hear of the sudden death of Jim Wallace (Lord Wallace of Tankerness).

Jim achieved many things during a long and illustrious political and civic career. But we are particularly grateful for his contribution to the work of the first Poverty Truth Commission in Scotland (2009-2011), where he served as its Co-Chair and for his ongoing support of the Poverty Truth Network.

Tricia McConalogue, who served as Co-Chair alongside Jim said: “I am sad to hear about the passing of Lord Jim Wallace of Tankerness. It was a pleasure and an honour to previously Co-Chair with Lord Wallace on the first Poverty Truth Commission in Scotland. He was a defender of people in poverty and his passion for social justice was apparent throughout his political career.”

Martin Johnstone, one of the Co-Directors of the Poverty Truth Network, who worked with Lord Wallace in a variety of settings over the last twenty years said: “Jim was a truly remarkable man. He held some of the highest offices in the land but retained a deep sense of humility. The way he listened, and the way that he made space for others to be heard, set the bar for all future Poverty Truth Commissioners. He was kind, generous and insightful. We owe him a great debt.”

Together the Poverty Truth Community in Scotland, and the wider Poverty Truth Network are grateful for Jim’s life and join with many others in expressing deep sympathy to his wife Rosie and their family.