Brexit role for Argyll and Bute MSP

MICHAEL RUSSELL has been handed a new cabinet role by Scotland’s first minister at the heart of Brexit discussions. Nicola Sturgeon announced the appointment of the MSP to the new role of minister for UK negotiations on Scotland’s place in Europe.

Russell will now represent Scotland in negotiations with Westminster on the European Union and report directly to Sturgeon.

Mr Russell said: ‘I am thrilled to be taking this post on at a unique time. As the first minister said last week, I am going to be focusing on making sure that the interests of Scotland are represented and protected in all Westminster EU negotiations.

‘We already have an agreement with the prime minister that the Scottish government should be fully involved in the development of the UK government’s position ahead of Article 50 being triggered and beyond, and that options to protect Scotland’s relationship with Europe will form part of these discussions.

‘Here in Argyll and Bute farming and crofting rely heavily on financial support from the EU, and the growingly important food industries need access to European markets including our whisky industry.

‘I intend to go on working just as hard for the people of Argyll and Bute, supported by my great staff, so locally it will be business as usual for constituents who need my help.’