| Mrs Brown is due to give birth in July. A spokesperson for the Browns said, “Sarah and Gordon are absolutely delighted by the news”.
The couple tragically lost their first child, Jennifer Jane, after she was born prematurely.
Jennifer was born seven weeks early on December 28, 2001, weighing just 2lb 4oz, and died 10 days later at Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, having spent all of her short life in hospital.
Speaking shortly after her death, Mr Brown (54) said the little girl had been an “inspiration” to him and his wife, adding, “I don’t think we’ll be the same again.”
In October 2003, Mr and Mrs Brown wept tears of joy when they celebrated the birth of their second child, John, who weighed a healthy 8lbs 1oz.
Congratulations poured in from family, friends and political figures — led by Prime Minister Tony Blair —after the news became public today.
Scotland First Minister Jack McConnell said, “I am delighted for Gordon and Sarah. This is tremendous news. I wish the Brown family all the best.”
Alex Rowley, election agent in Mr Brown’s constituency of Kirkcaldy and Cowdenbeath, said, “Within the constituency, people are delighted at the news and wish them all the very best.”
The Chancellor’s elder brother, John, said, “We are absolutely delighted. It’s great news for Sarah and for Gordon — and for John, who was two in October. It will be nice for him to have a new brother or sister.”
The Rev Christopher Park, minister at Mr Brown’s local church in North Queensferry, said, “That’s great news. We are all delighted.” |
