Sir Alex Younger, the former head of MI6, has died at the age of 62 after being treated for cancer. Younger led the Secret Intelligence Service, also known as MI6, from 2014 to 2020, making him the longest-serving chief in 50 years.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer led tributes, stating: 'Sir Alex Younger led an exemplary life and career, ultimately serving as chief of the Secret Intelligence Service from 2014 to 2020. He will be remembered by the many ministers, colleagues, friends and family for his utmost dedication to British public life and protecting our nation.'
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said: 'I am deeply saddened by the death of Sir Alex Younger. His dedication, integrity and outstanding leadership as chief of MI6 kept us all safe, and the country owes him an enormous debt of gratitude.'
Blaise Metreweli, the current chief of MI6, said: 'It is with immense sadness that I am sharing the news that former MI6 chief Sir Alex Younger died today after fighting cancer for some time. Alex embodied my service's values of integrity, courage, creativity and respect. We remember Alex's deep commitment to public service and the security of the UK.'
Younger was commissioned into the Royal Scots in 1986, later transferring to the Scots Guards. He joined MI6 in 1991 and served operational intelligence duties in Europe and the Middle East. He was MI6 station chief in Afghanistan during the US-led coalition against the Taliban in 2001 and later led MI6's counter-terrorism work ahead of the 2012 London Olympics.
