Baillie back on Scottish Labour frontbench 18 months after sacking

Jackie Baillie is Scottish Labour's new spokesman on finance.

Ms Baillie, who was elected as Scottish Labour’s deputy leader earlier this month, has been appointed as her party’s finance spokesperson in Holyrood.

However, she will also be “campaign co-ordinator” for next year’s Scottish Parliament elections, with oversight of the party machine, in a move which will appeal to the more moderate wing of the party.

And while she will report to Mr Leonard, Labour insiders say she will work closely with Shadow Scottish Secretary Ian Murray on the political direction of the party.

Ms Baillie will also work with Labour councillors on the campaign for the 2022 council elections, with oversight of resourcing and candidate selection.

She said: “I look forward to serving as Scottish Labour’s finance spokesperson and helping to rebuild our economy and public services after the coronavirus pandemic. I have an equally challenging but important role in rebuilding the Scottish Labour Party, working with staff and all members across the labour and trade union movement, so that we become a winning electoral force again.”

Mr Leonard said: “I am glad that Jackie has agreed to speak for Scottish Labour on finance. She brings great experience and an eye for detail, and I am looking forward to working with her to develop our proposals for stimulating Scotland’s economy and investing in public services after Covid-19.

“I am also delighted that Jackie will be co-ordinating our 2021 election campaign. Having won her constituency at every election since 1999, there is no-one better placed to ensure we are on a firm footing to win back constituency seats in the Scottish Parliament.”

Mr Murray said: “Jackie is a proven winner and her role in political oversight of the party organisation will ensure Scottish Labour is in the best possible shape for the future. We have to use all our talents to provide a credible and positive alternative to both the SNP and Tories.