Johann Lamont unveils new frontbench MSPs

SCOTTISH Labour leader Johann Lamont has unveiled the latest changes to her frontbench team with four backbench MSPs promoted to shadow minister posts.

Johann Lamont has named four backbench MSPs in her new frontline team. Picture: Phil Wilkinson

Ms Lamont named Mark Griffin as shadow minister for transport and veterans, and Mary Fee as a housing spokeswoman - both of who were part of the intake of Labour MSPs at the 2011 election.

Labour MSP Margaret McCulloch, who was also elected in 2011, had been handed the role of deputy whip, a post that will see her help to take charge of party discipline at Holyrood.

The shadow minister for children was named as Jayne Baxter, who only became an MSP after senior Labour figure John Park left Holyrood to become a trade union official at the end of last year.

Former Labour minister Jackie Baillie is the party’s new shadow cabinet secretary for social justice, equalities and welfare.

Ms Lamont had already announced that Ms Baillie would be leaving her previous portfolio of health, but remain in the shadow cabinet when initial changes to the frontbench were unveiled last month.