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Lord Mackay of Clashfern

Jul 8, 2026

The Lord President has paid tribute to Lord Mackay of Clashfern who has died at the age of 99.

The Lord President, Lord Pentland said:

“Lord Mackay of Clashfern was one of the greatest Scottish lawyers of his generation. He had a brilliant career as a leading member of the Scots bar. He served with distinction as Dean of the Faculty of Advocates and as Lord Advocate. He was a Sheriff Principal and Senator of the College of Justice before being appointed as Lord Chancellor. Throughout his time as a member of the UK Government and during his long service in the House of Lords, he was always a powerful voice for the interests of Scots law and the Scottish legal system. On behalf of the Scottish judiciary, I extend profound condolences and sympathy to Lady Mackay and to the family.”