Newrolesfor Perthshire politicians

The runner up in the Perth and North Perthshire election earlier this month has officially been made a lord.

Ian Duncan stood for the Conservatives against the SNP’s Pete Wishart and lost out by just 21 votes.

Alyth-raised Mr Duncan represented Scotland as an MEP in the European Parliament, but will now have to give up that position in favour of the House of Lords.

His new duties also include being made the UK Government minister for Scotland.

He said:“This is a crucial time for Scotland, as we start our negotiations with the EU and look at how we bring powers back to the UK in a way which strengthens our economy.

“Having worked in Brussels for many years as an MEP, and previously as an EU advisor to the Scottish Parliament, I understand how important it is that we build a new partnership with the EU, while making sure that whole of the UK gets the best possible deal, especially around crucial issues for Scotland such as fisheries, agriculture and energy.”

The appointment caused controversy with Mr Wishart among those who questioned the move.

As the news was announced it also emerged the winner of the consituency battle has now been given additional responsibility in the House of Commons.

Mr Wishart has been given the role of spokesperson on the constitution. He was also re-appointed as Shadow Leader of the House.

He said:“I am delighted to have been asked to continue in my role as Shadow Leader of the House. With all that is ahead of us in terms of Brexit it will be really important to ensure that the business of the House reflects the concerns of the people we represent.

“On top of the important job of keeping Andrea Leadsom to account, I have also been asked to be the SNP spokesperson on the constitution, which is a very good fit with the rest of the role at a time when constitutional issues will be very much to the fore.”