He died at the age of 62 after being treated for cancer. The Prince of Wales took to Kensington Palace’s X account, his official account alongside Princess Catherine, to praise Sir Alex and share his condolences with his family.
“He embodied the very best of what the Secret Intelligence Service stands for – integrity, courage, and an unwavering commitment to protecting this country and its people.
“Britain has lost an exceptional public servant. My thoughts are with Lady Younger and their family.” He signed the message with his initial, “W”.
Also paying tribute, the Prime Minister said: “I was saddened to learn of the news of the death of Sir Alex Younger. 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. My thoughts are with his family at this difficult time.”
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.
“I would like to extend our deepest sympathies to his family and his friends at this incredibly difficult time.”
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. He made a lasting and distinctive contribution to our country and indeed to global security. Today my thoughts and those of the whole of MI6 are with Alex’s loved ones.”