Scott reshuffles backroom team

Published on Sunday 31 August 2008 15:42

NEWLY elected Lib Dem leader Tavish Scott today announced a reshuffle of his backroom team.

Leadership rival Mike Rumbles has been appointed chief whip, having previously been rural affairs and environment spokesman.

Ross Finnie, also a contender for the top job, remains party health spokesman.

Glasgow MSP Robert Brown becomes justice spokesman, taking over from Margaret Smith who moves to education.

But former leader Nicol Stephen will not have any shadow brief in the new team.

Mr Scott said today: "I want the Liberal Democrats to be the most effective campaigning political party in Scotland.

"That's why I am determined that we break through the Holyrood bubble and tackle the issues which matter to people in every part of Scotland.

"To make that happen each of the spokespeople I have appointed has been given an additional priority area to focus on.

"These priorities reflect the issues which are facing ordinary people across Scotland – from Shetland to Stranraer. I want the team campaigning across the country taking the Lib Dem message to the country."

Orkney MSP Liam McArthur takes over as environment and rural development spokesman with a special responsibility for tackling fuel bills.

Jeremy Purvis takes over Mr Scott's previous role as spokesman on finance and the economy.