Conservative MEP who lost election confirmed as UK Scottish minister

Defeated general election candidate Ian Duncan has been appointed a UK minister, the Scotland Office has confirmed.

The Conservative MEP, who narrowly missed out on a Commons seat in this month’s election, is to be Scottish secretary David Mundell’s deputy, as revealed by The Courier on Monday.

The move, which will see Mr Duncan given a peerage, provoked outcry from some politicians.

It was also seen as a snub to the 12 new Scottish Conservative MPs who did win their Westminster seats.

Mr Duncan, a former EU adviser to the Scottish Parliament, said he will be able to draw upon his Brussels experience in a “crucial time” for Scotland in which EU powers will be repatriated to the UK through Brexit.

“Working alongside Scottish secretary David Mundell, and in close collaboration with the Scottish Government, I look forward to playing a key role in helping build Scotland’s economy and strengthen the Union,” he said. “We are in a strong position to deliver for Scotland.”

Mr Mundell said: “His appointment as UK Government minister for Scotland will greatly strengthen our ability to get the best deal for Scotland and the rest of the UK as we leave the EU.”

Earlier this week, Nicola Sturgeon said installing someone in government who has been rejected by voters through giving them a seat in the House of Lords “should not be allowed”.

Mr Duncan lost out to the SNP’s Pete Wishart by just 21 votes in the Perth and North Perthshire contest on June 8.

Ian Duncan has been appointed as deputy Scottish secretary.