STUC stalwart Campbell Christie dies aged 74

Mr Christie served as general secretary of the Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC) from 1986 to 1998.

In a statement, the STUC said he had been an outstanding leader with “tremendous skill and passion”.

Current general secretary Grahame Smith said: “Campbell was comfortable on the shop floor and in the boardroom.

“He was never afraid of taking the difficult decision, even if he knew it might upset others in the Labour movement.

“He always saw the bigger picture. Whether it was the myriad of campaigns for jobs, in support of manufacturing or public services or in opposition to the imposition of the poll tax, Campbell’s overwhelming objective was always to place the STUC and the unions at the heart of Scottish industrial and political life.”

Mr Christie was a supporter of home rule for Scotland and had influence that reached beyond the unions, the STUC said.

He was described as a prominent figure in the international peace movement and was a chair of the board of Falkirk FC.

Mr Christie recently led a commission into public-sector reform, established by the Scottish Government.

First Minister Alex Salmond said: “Scotland has lost a giant of the trade union movement and of public life.

“Campbell was loved by many for his principles, his humour and his courage.”

He added: “Campbell’s life will not just be measured in the offices he held or the achievements he won, many as they were, but also in the generosity of spirit and dignified manner which distinguished all his actions.

“I speak for the nation in sending condolences and sympathy to his beloved wife Betty and family.

“For many, Campbell’s warmth as a man and a fighter were evident in his love for Falkirk FC, and I know that all Falkirk Bairns will be mourning today.”