TRIBUTES were last night paid to leading QC and civil rights campaigner Derek Ogg, who has died at the age of 65.
Lawyers, activists and politicians praised the advocate, with First Minister Nicola Sturgeon describing the news of his death as “dreadful”.
She said on Twitter: “Derek was a brilliant advocate and a truly lovely man. He will be deeply missed by so many in his profession and beyond.
“It was always a pleasure for me to hear from him on issues he felt strongly about, and I will miss his wisdom and good sense.”
Ogg was found at his home in Glasgow on Friday evening by police officers. Police Scotland said there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death.
As well as a career spanning work as a Crown prosecutor and defence advocate, Ogg was known for championing gay rights.
The Terrence Higgins Trust said his “trailblazing activism” had helped raise awareness of HIV among other gay men – even before a case had been reported in Scotland. Ogg also campaigned for the automatic pardoning of gay and bisexual men convicted of sexual offences that are no longer illegal, which was introduced through legislation passed at Holyrood in 2018.
SNP MP Joanna Cherry QC said: “So sad to hear of the death of Derek Ogg QC. A fine advocate, a good friend and colleague and so eloquent and funny. He will be particularly remembered for his strength of character and courage in leading the fight to legalise homosexuality in Scotland in the 1970s.”
Lawyer Aamer Anwar tweeted: “So sad to hear of the passing of Derek Ogg QC, beautiful man of deep intellect, humility and humour, never forgot his kindness in dark times. A giant who made a lasting contribution to our justice system and stood up for gay rights when it would’ve been easier for him to stay quiet.”
David McKie, senior partner of law firm Levy & McRae, said: “Derek Ogg was a hugely respected and popular advocate. He fought fiercely for his clients and also for his beliefs.
“He was extremely approachable and had a wonderful sense of humour.”
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