Baroness Meta Ramsay, a revered figure in British intelligence and once considered a frontrunner to lead MI6, has died.
Described as a “trailblazer” and a “proper spy,” her passing on Thursday marks the end of a distinguished career.
Lady Ramsay served for 22 years, rising to become the most senior officer within MI6. Her tenure included participation in one of the Cold War’s most daring operations: the 1985 extraction of KGB double agent Oleg Gordievsky from the Soviet Union.
After taking compulsory retirement at the age of 55, she embarked on a new career in politics, becoming foreign policy adviser to Labour leader John Smith, an old university friend, before entering the House of Lords and becoming a government minister under Tony Blair.
A lifelong socialist, she said her proudest achievement in office was helping to steer the 1998 Scotland Act – which established the Scottish Parliament – through the upper chamber.
Upon hearing of her death, Sir Richard Moore, a former chief of MI6, paid tribute to her, remembering her as “wise, kind, fun.”
He said: “She was a trailblazer for women in MI6 and so thrilled that Blaise Metreweli, first woman ‘C’, like her, was a proper spy who had run operations.”
Politicians also paid tribute to Lady Ramsay, who entered politics after leaving MI6 in the early 1990s, becoming foreign policy adviser to Labour leader John Smith and then a government minister under Sir Tony Blair.
Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle said: “Meta had an incredible life and was highly respected in her career in the Secret Intelligence Service and as a member of the House of Lords.
“She was a valued friend to my father, myself and my wife and will be missed.”
Labour deputy leader Lucy Powell described her as “a remarkable woman, who led an extraordinary life, but throughout remained humble and gracious” and “always gave the best advice and particularly supported women in politics and Parliament”.
Former Labour deputy leader Lord Tom Watson said Lady Ramsay was “a true servant of the people”, while former health secretary Wes Streeting said her life was “the epitome of public service”.
Scottish Labour Leader Anas Sarwar shared: “Deeply saddened to hear of the passing of my friend Meta Ramsay. From her work in the diplomatic service and intelligence community to decades of service in the House of Lords, she dedicated her life to public service and to Scotland.
“She brought that intellect and commitment to everything she did and will be missed. My thoughts are with all those who knew and loved her”.
