Monica’s top job
Shadow cabinet reshuffle
Monica Lennon has been given a new role in the reshuffled Scottish Labour shadow cabinet.
The Central Scotland MSP was named shadow secretary for health and sport by party leader Richard Leonard.
The former councillor replaces MSP Anas Sarwar in the role.
“I’m delighted,” said Ms Lennon.
“Labour created the NHS 70 years ago and it’s our proudest achievement.
“People who work in our health service are tremendously hardworking and dedicated, but too many of them are experiencing stress because our hospitals are understaffed.
“After 11 years of SNP complacency, our health service is desperately in need of resources.
“It’s a huge privilege to serve my constituents across Central Scotland and I look forward to continuing to do that in my new role where I will be holding the SNP government to account.”
She added: “Where I can, I will reach out and work with others on a cross-party basis on ways to improve the health outcomes of the people of Scotland.
“I’m really eager to hear from local groups and people about their experiences.
“I will be a strong voice in Parliament on the need to ensure our NHS gets the resources it needs to properly serve the people of Scotland and reduce health inequalities.”
Making the announcement, Mr Leonard said: “The refreshed shadow cabinet will take Scottish Labour into the central debate in Scottish politics – the clear choice between Labour’s plan to invest and build an economy that works for the many, not the few, or further austerity with the SNP and the Tories.
“My new shadow cabinet is a blend of skills and experience whose aim is to turn around Scottish Labour’s electoral successes.”