Michelle Ballantyne appointed shadow social security secretary

Michelle Ballantyne has been promoted to the Scottish Conservative shadow cabinet after being appointed shadow social security secretary.

Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson said the move will mean Adam Tomkins, previously responsible for communities, social security, the constitution and equalities, will have more time to concentrate on constitutional issues.

Ballantyne was elected to the Scottish Parliament through the party list in 2017, after replacing Rachael Hamilton, who resigned her seat to successfully contest the Ettrick, Roxburgh and Berwickshire by-election.

Ballantyne has previously acted as the Scottish Conservative group leader on Scottish Borders Council and the party’s spokesperson for Childcare and Early Years.

Davidson said: “Michelle’s background in nursing, health service management and her work in the third sector providing specialist drug and alcohol support means she brings a wealth of experience to this important brief.

“With so many new powers over welfare coming to the Scottish Parliament, Michelle will be leading the debate for the Scottish Conservatives on how those powers should be best shaped and used in future.

“I thank Adam Tomkins for his hard work in this brief and look forward to him concentrating his full powers on constitutional affairs.”

Ballantyne said: “There’s no doubt that this is going to be a big challenge, and a brief that we have to get right for the people of Scotland.

“We supported the devolution of a range of welfare powers and it is incumbent on us now to use them effectively

“I am delighted that Ruth has placed her confidence in me and I look forward to working closely with my colleagues in my new role.”