Death of former Councillor Willie Clarke

That this House notes with great sadness the passing of former Councillor Willie Clarke at the age of 84; records its gratitude for Willie's 43 years of unbroken service as a Councillor in Fife; notes in particular his place in history as Scotland's last Communist Councillor; pays tribute to his dedication as a representative of the communities of Ballingry and Lochore, his continued involvement in the life of these communities after his health forced him to retire as a Councillor, his courageous eight year battle with cancer, his years of service to the trades union movement and his lifelong campaign for justice for former miners whose health was ruined by industrial illness; and offers its deepest sympathies to Willie's family and loved ones.