I shadowed James as Northern Ireland Secretary for a year or so and got to know him a little and respect him greatly. He was an excellent, understated but highly effective minister, who took his responsibilities to the peace and people of NI with great care and seriousness. He was unfailingly caring, courteous and charming and, rare among politicians, was both liked and respected across all political divides. He could and would have achieved much more had he been given more time. My deepest condolences to all of his family and friends. RIP James. Owen Smith