The MP for Glenrothes had suffered for over two years with mesolthelioma, the asbestos related lung condition. He has left behind his wife, Cathy and two children, Scott and Julie. 

The MP’s death will trigger a by-election in the constituency which borders Prime Minister Gordon Brown’s in Kircaldy.  He won the seat with a majority of 10,664 votes over the SNP candidate at the last election.

MacDougall served as a councillor in Fife for almost 20 years including a period as convenor of Fife Regional Council.  He was first elected to Westminster in 2001 in the old Central Fife seat.  He was a member of the Scottish Constitutional Convention and a member of the Scottish Broadcasting Authority.    

Commenting on his death a Scottish Labour spokesperson said:

"It is with profound regret that we can confirm the death of John MacDougall. Our thoughts and sympathy are with John's family at this extremely difficult time."

SNP Westminster Leader Angus Robertson MP also paid tribute to the late MP:

"I am saddened that John has lost his long and brave fight against illness, and our condolences go to his wife and family at this very difficult time.

"We may have been on opposite sides in the House of Commons, but John carried the respect of people right across the chamber, and was passionate for the issues he believed in and the welfare of his constituents, which he cared about deeply.  He will be much missed."

Conservatives Shadow Secretary of State for Scotland David Mundell MP said:

"John was a kind and decent man who dedicated to the service of the people of Fife, with distinguished service both in Parliament and local government. I have greatly admired the way in which he has borne such a debilitating illness with enormous courage. My thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time."

Details of the by-election will be announced when the Commons returns after the summer recess.