Glenalmond College alumnus Sir Alister Jack, former MP for Dumfries and Galloway, has been awarded a knighthood in the 2023 Dissolution Honours List in recognition of his outstanding political and public service.

Sir Alister, a businessman and farmer who resides near Lockerbie, was formally knighted in a ceremony at Buckingham Palace, where he received the accolade from The Princess Royal in the Throne Room. He was accompanied by his wife, Lady Ann, and their three grown-up children – Emily, Alice, and Will – for this momentous occasion.

Sir Alister represented the Dumfries and Galloway constituency at Westminster for seven years, having secured victories in both the 2017 and 2019 general elections. During his time in the House of Commons, he served on the Treasury Select Committee, in the Whips’ Office, and spent five years as Secretary of State for Scotland in the UK Cabinet. His service to the country and his constituents is a testament to his dedication and leadership in political life.

Reflecting on the honour, Sir Alister said, "I am incredibly honoured to have been awarded a knighthood in the Dissolution Honours. It has been an extraordinary privilege to represent the people of Dumfries and Galloway as their MP and to have had the opportunity to serve in the UK Government as Secretary of State for Scotland. The last few years have been a challenging period in many ways, but I hope that I have made a positive contribution in standing up for Scottish interests around the Cabinet table and in representing my constituents."

Since stepping down after completing his second term, Sir Alister has enjoyed some well-earned time away from the high-pressure world of national politics. He has spent his early days of retirement at his rural Dumfriesshire home with Lady Ann and their family, relishing the opportunity to enjoy their tranquil surroundings and the peace of their carefully nurtured traditional garden.

In addition to his knighthood, Sir Alister holds the title of Privy Counsellor, while Lady Ann is a Deputy Lieutenant for Dumfriesshire.

Sir Alister also took the opportunity to congratulate his successor, John Cooper, who was elected as the new Conservative MP for Dumfries and Galloway.

We are incredibly proud to celebrate Sir Alister’s remarkable achievements and lasting impact on both political life and his local community.