Former Labour MP Brian Wilson appointed business ambassador for Scotland

• Brian Wilson charged with promoting Scottish enterprise both at home and abroad

• Former Labour MP will look to grow Scottish exports

Michael Moore announced the appointment today as he toured the new Diageo bottling plant in Leven, Fife, which has recently seen an £86 million investment by the company.

Mr Wilson’s role will see him use his expertise to promote the Scottish economy and business environment, and encourage more firms to engage in international business, with the view to growing Scottish exports.

Last year, the Labour MP of 18 years was named UK global director of the year by the Institute of Directors for his work as chairman of Harris Tweed Hebrides.

The former Cunninghame North MP said: “Trade is politically neutral and translates directly into jobs and prosperity at home.

“I am very willing to make whatever contribution I can to supporting Scottish and other UK companies overseas, and by encouraging more of our businesses to become exporters.”

Scottish Secretary Michael Moore’s “expertise” in Scottish business was a key factor in his appointment.

He said: “I am delighted to see Brian Wilson being appointed as a UK business ambassador.

“He has an enormous amount of knowledge of the Scottish economy and will be a huge asset.

“I look forward to working together to help boost Scotland’s export performance, which is a vital part of driving forward the Scottish economy.

“Our visit to Diageo underlines how important the whisky industry is to the Scottish economy but, equally, why we need to focus our efforts on encouraging more exports by Scottish firms. Brian’s expertise will be invaluable in helping us achieve that goal.”