David Cairns' death at such a young age is a tragic loss of an exceptional man. I first got to know him when he was a new MP and a tremendous addition to the Scottish group of Labour MPs.

He brought a distinctive voice. He was witty and warm, with a dry sense of humour.  But there was not an ounce of cynicism in him. He had a great intellect but there was nothing remote about his politics.

I remember his indignation on behalf of his constituents about planned changes in maternity services.

I shall miss him because he was a funny, kind and principled colleague.  My heartfelt sympathies are with Dermot and his family.