New Scottish Labour leader Johann Lamont unveils her first appointments

New Scottish Labour leader Johann Lamont has named her front-bench appointments, including a top job for her closest challenger Ken Macintosh.

Ms Lamont handed the finance, employment and sustainable growth remit to Mr Macintosh, who was beaten in the contest on Saturday.

Further appointments will be made, bringing experts in to advise her team.

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Ms Lamont, MSP for Glasgow Pollok, said she will set out a positive vision for a “fair” Scotland that can pay its own way.

She said: “My shadow cabinet will be inclusive, bringing together experienced former ministers and newer voices to speak on the important issues for Scotland.

“Our job will not just be to hold the Scottish Government to account, but to show our party’s ambition again.

“Together we must set out and convince the people of Scotland of Labour’s vision for our country.

“Ours is a positive vision for a prosperous Scotland that can pay its own way, a wealth-creating Scotland that uses its wealth to build a fairer country, a Scotland determined that not one person’s talent is wasted, a Scotland that challenges all Scots to be all that they can be, and which creates the conditions in which we can reach our aspirations.

“My shadow cabinet will comprise elected politicians and also experts in their fields from all walks of life to advise, share experience and help shape the future of our country. I will make more appointments in the coming weeks and months.”

The overhaul sees Hugh Henry become spokesman for education and lifelong learning, but leaves Jackie Baillie in charge of health.

Patricia Ferguson will be spokeswoman for culture, external affairs and the Commonwealth Games, Richard Baker becomes spokesman for infrastructure and capital investment.

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Lewis Macdonald was appointed justice spokesman, Sarah Boyack becomes spokeswoman for local government and planning, and Claire Baker becomes spokeswoman for rural affairs and environment.

Paul Martin remains parliamentary business manager and James Kelly is the chief whip.

After the first round of counting on Saturday, Ms Lamont had 51.77 per cent of the votes, putting her ahead of Mr Macintosh with 40.28 per cent and Glasgow South MP Tom Harris, who came in third with 7.95 per cent.

She becomes the first person to lead the whole of the party in Scotland, rather than just the Holyrood group, following changes to the structure in summer.