North-east politicians have expressed sadness at the death of the wife of “Buchan bulldog” Sir Albert McQuarrie.
Lady Rhoda McQuarrie, who was married to former Conservative Banff and Buchan MP Sir Albert, has died aged 77.
Ever since Sir Albert died in 2016, Lady Rhoda continued to be a supporter of the Tories, remaining active in the local party, and recently attended the opening of the new Peterhead fish market – an initiative for which her husband had campaigned.
Sir Albert was MP for East Aberdeenshire from 1979 to 1983, and Banff and Buchan MP from 1983 to 1987 and was instrumental in securing the Peterhead Harbour (South Day) Confirmation Bill in 1986.
Although originally from Gourock, Sir Albert became one of the north-east’s most prominent campaigning MPs taking local issues to the heart of government.
He married the then Rhoda Gall in 1989.
Lady Rhoda was active in the community, launching the likes of flower shows locally.
Last night members of parliament who now occupy the former seats held by Sir Albert paid respects to Lady Rhoda.
Current Banff and Buchan MP David Duguid, who is also a Conservative, said she had proved a rock of support for his own wife when he was elected to parliament in 2017.
He said: “I was deeply saddened to hear this news.
“Lady McQuarrie has always been of great support to me throughout my time as Banff and Buchan MP.
“She always reminded me how delighted Sir Albert would have been to see the constituency ‘go blue’ again.
“Lady McQuarrie also has been particularly supportive of my wife, as she knows very well the life of a spouse to an MP.”
Colin Clark, Conservative MP for Gordon, said the husband-and-wife team had been a “double act”.
He added: “I recall visiting Sir Albert and Lady McQuarrie on several occasions.
“They were a double act delivering Sir Albert’s memories and experiences.
“He was a great force in north-east politics and Lady McQuarrie was the source of his strength in later years.
“Rhoda will be missed by the Mintlaw community, but there will be many happy memories to cherish.”
