Lockerbie lawyer appointed Scots Conservatives chair

One of Scotland’s most senior QCs has been appointed the new chairman of the Scottish Conservatives.

Richard Keen QC has been appointed chairman of the Scottish Conservatives. Picture: Jane Barlow

Richard Keen, the current Dean of the Faculty of Advocates, suceeds Scotland Office minister David Mundell and will take up his post at the start of the new year.

Mr Keen’s appointment will be formally announced to members at the party’s national convention in Dunblane this weekend.

Tory leader Ruth Davidson today welcomed the appointment.

“As one of the UK’s leading legal brains, he brings a wealth of external experience to the party and I am looking forward to working closely with him as we lead the team at a critical time in the politics of our country,” Ms Davidson said.

“Richard’s appointment shows the Scottish Conservatives are committed to bringing in the brightest and best people from across Scotland as we make the changes our party needs for future success.”

Mr Keen’s high profile cases include successfully defending Al Amin Khalifa at the Lockerbie trial who was cleared.

“I welcome the opportunity to assume the chairmanship of the Scottish Conservatives as we enter such a significant period in our political and constitutional history,” Mr Keen said.

“As we face the potential break up of Britain, there are many in Scotland who will be reminded of the values of our party and its role in maintaining what is so much more than just the political union of the UK.”