Willie Rennie appoints student Mariam Mahmood as Lib Dem environment spokesperson

Mariam Mahmood - photo credit: Mariam Mahmood

Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Willie Rennie has appointed University of St Andrews student Mariam Mahmood as the party’s new environment spokesperson.

Mahmood, who is studying International Relations, joined the party after the 2015 general election.

She will take over the environment brief, which was previously split between MSP Liam McArthur as energy spokesperson and MSP Mike Rumbles, who is spokesperson for rural affairs.

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Rennie said that having grass root members as spokespeople was a “classic example” of the Lib Dem approach to sharing power.

Taking on the brief, Mahmood said: “Creating a green and sustainable world is the most important task that our generation currently has and if we are to leave behind a sustainable legacy for future generations then we need to act now.  

“Creating a strong renewables industry is something I have a strong passion for. Not only will this secure jobs and contribute to a strong economy but will also create a sustainable economy for generations to come. Just last week we saw reports of potential job losses in the sector as both the Scottish and UK Governments fail to support the industry.

“Decisions that this Scottish Government has made, including their support for a third runway at Heathrow and the cut in APD, are bad for the environment and I look forward to holding the SNP to account for failing to stand up for the environment.    

Rennie added: “Mariam will make a great addition to our spokesperson team and will provide a strong critical opposition to the Scottish Government’s failings on the environment.

“Liberal Democrats believe that power is best used when it is shared and having grass root members like Mariam on our spokesperson team is a classic example of that in action. I am proud of members across Scotland like Mariam who are integral in making sure we see a more open, tolerant and united society.”