Alex Younger, former head of MI6, dies aged 62
Sir Alex Younger, the former head of MI6, has passed away at the age of 62 after a battle with cancer. He served as chief of the Secret Intelligence Service from 2014 to 2020 and was remembered for his dedication to public service and national security. Tributes have poured in from political leaders and colleagues, highlighting his integrity and leadership.
- ▪Alex Younger led MI6 from 2014 to 2020 and was its longest-serving chief in 50 years.
- ▪He was commissioned into the Royal Scots in 1986 and later served in operational intelligence in Europe and the Middle East.
- ▪Younger was remembered for his commitment to public service and the security of the UK.
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Sir Alex Younger. Photograph: Andrew Milligan/PAView image in fullscreenSir Alex Younger. Photograph: Andrew Milligan/PAMI6Alex Younger, former head of MI6, dies aged 62 Keir Starmer says Younger led an ‘exemplary life’, while foreign secretary says country owes him ‘an enormous debt of gratitude’Guardian staff and agenciesWed 3 Jun 2026 14.30 EDTLast modified on Wed 3 Jun 2026 14.41 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleAlex Younger, the former head of MI6, has died at the age of 62 after being treated for cancer.Younger led the Secret Intelligence Service, the agency also known as MI6, between 2014 and 2020.Keir Starmer led tributes to his “utmost dedication” to protecting the country, saying on Wednesday: “I was saddened to learn of the news of the death of Sir Alex Younger.“Sir Alex…
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