I am deeply saddened by the announcement of the passing of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II.

My constituency has a special royal connection, containing the Royal Burgh of Rutherglen, one of Scotland’s oldest royal burghs.

Her Majesty was, throughout her seventy-years as monarch, entirely dedicated to public service. Her sense of duty and the strength of her commitment to the United Kingdom, British Overseas Territories and the Commonwealth will define her reign.

My thoughts and prayers are with Her Majesty’s family and loved ones at this difficult time.