Ed Miliband MP, Leader of the Labour Party, said:

“Sam Galbraith’s life was a lesson in Labour values. As a doctor, he was completely committed to the NHS, as an MP and MSP he was restless in trying to rid Scotland of inequality and as one of the first members of the Scottish Parliament he was dedicated to using devolution to bring power closer to people.

“He was a man of decency, honesty and integrity who committed his life to public service, and the whole Labour family will mourn his death.”