Gordon Wilson, MP for Dundee East and Chairman of the Scottish National Party

Scope and Content

The collection contains:

  • Party papers, 1977-1978
  • Files relating to political and policy issues, 1979-1997
  • Election files, 1973-1987
  • Files relating to local politics, 1984-1990
  • International visits, 1977
  • Publications, 1963-1989
  • Press Cuttings, 1986-1987
  • Photographs, 1958-c 1994

Administrative / Biographical History

Robert Gordon Wilson was born 1938. He came to national prominence in the 1960s when he served as Secretary of the Scottish National Party and was a leading figure in Radio Free Scotland. In 1973, as the Scottish National Party candidate in the Dundee East by-election, Wilson polled over 13,000 votes and was only narrowly defeated in a seat which had been considered safe territory for the Labour Party. The following year Wilson won the seat at the February General Election. He would hold Dundee East until 1987, when he was defeated by Labours John McAllion. Between 1979 and 1987 Wilson was one of only two SNP MPs. From 1979 until 1990 he was Chairman of the SNP. He served as Rector of the University of Dundee 1983-1986.

Arrangement

Records are arranged chronologically within series.

Access Information

Open for consultation subject to preservation requirements. Access must also conform to the restrictions of the Data Protection Act and any other appropriate legislation.

Other Finding Aids

Descriptive list. Subject source lists and databases are also available.

Alternative Form Available

No known copies.

Physical Characteristics and/or Technical Requirements

The records are on paper and include photographs.

Archivist's Note

Fonds level description compiled by Kenneth Baxter, Archives Assistant, October 2010.

Conditions Governing Use

Reproduction is available subject to preservation requirements. Charges are made for this service, and copyright and other restrictions may apply.

Accruals

None expected.

Location of Originals

The material is original.

Geographical Names