Scottish Minister Christina McKelvie Dies at 57 After Cancer Battle

The long-serving MSP and advocate for social justice and health awareness passed away at Glasgow Royal Infirmary, leaving a legacy of impactful public service.

Christina McKelvie, Minister for Drugs and Alcohol Policy, passed away on March 27, 2025, at Glasgow Royal Infirmary after battling secondary breast cancer.
McKelvie served as an MSP since 2007, representing Central Scotland and later Hamilton, Larkhall, and Stonehouse, and held several ministerial roles over her career.
She was widely recognized for her advocacy on social justice, equality, and health awareness, including using her platform to promote breast cancer screenings after her own diagnosis.
McKelvie spearheaded landmark initiatives such as Scotland's first strategy to address social isolation and loneliness as a health issue and legislation banning female genital mutilation.
Tributes from First Minister John Swinney and others highlighted her dedication, compassion, and pride in her working-class roots in Easterhouse, which inspired her political journey.