Lib Dem Jim Wallace has stood down as deputy first minister

The 50-year-old has attended his last cabinet meeting after announcing his plan to leave government last month.

Jack McConnell said he had been an advocate of devolution and someone who saw devolution "as a tool to improve people's lives", not an end in itself.

Mr Wallace thanked him for his support and the good working relationship they had shared at the Scottish Executive.

Paying tribute, Mr McConnell cited the scrapping of upfront tuition fees and free personal care for the elderly as "significant memories" for Mr Wallace.

He has worked through the challenges of the first six years, at all times being positive and a pleasure to work with. Jack McConnell First Minister

He added: "He showed great leadership in working with other parties in the constitutional convention, and in securing a yes-yes vote in 1997.

"He has worked through the challenges of the first six years, at all times being positive and a pleasure to work with.

"I will particularly miss his consistency and commitment to long-term change."

In response, Mr Wallace told ministers at the meeting: "The different people around this table have truly represented all parts and all interests of Scotland, and I believe that is one of the strengths of this coalition government."

Mr Wallace is also stepping down as leader of the Scottish Lib Dems after 13 years in charge.