Richard Leonard reshuffles Labour shadow cabinet

Scottish Labour leader Richard Leonard has reshuffled his front bench at Holyrood.

Former transport minister Sarah Boyack – who is replacing Kezia Dugdale – has been named local government spokeswoman as she makes her return to frontline politics.

Leonard said the new team will “renew the energy” across Scottish Labour ahead of the 2021 Holyrood election.

He said: “We begin this new parliamentary term, at one of the most important times in our political history.

“I am confident that our new shadow cabinet team have the expertise, experience and enthusiasm to both hold the SNP government to account and to put forward the distinctive Scottish Labour alternative. The new team will renew the energy across our party ahead of the 2021 Holyrood elections.

“We know that we need to make a strong case based on Labour values with voters and work closely with our dedicated members across the country. That is why the Leader of North Ayrshire Council, Joe Cullinane, has been appointed to lead on campaigns and party engagement. He is a seasoned campaigner working hard in his local community and the experience he brings will be a great asset to our team.

“I am also delighted to welcome Sarah Boyack back to the Scottish Parliament and to our shadow cabinet in the local government role. Sarah will be a strong addition to our team.”

The full reshuffle is as follows:

Richard Leonard MSP Leader of the Scottish Labour Party and Economy, Jobs and Fair Work

Lesley Laird MP Shadow Secretary of State for Scotland and Deputy Leader

Elaine Smith MSP Business Manager

Rhoda Grant MSP Finance, Jobs and Fair Work

Alex Rowley MSP Brexit & the Constitution

Iain Gray MSP Education, Skills and Science

Monica Lennon MSP Health and Sport

Claudia Beamish MSP Environment, Climate Change and Land Reform

Pauline McNeill MSP Communities and Equalities

James Kelly MSP Justice

Claire Baker MSP Culture, Tourism and External Affairs

Sarah Boyack MSP Local Government

Colin Smyth MSP Rural Economy, Transport Connectivity

David Stewart MSP Eradication of Poverty & Social Inequality

Joe Cullinane, Leader of North Ayrshire Council Campaigns and Party Engagement