MSP Lochhead back in key Scottish post
Richard Lochhead has been reappointed to the cabinet post of secretary for the environment and rural affairs
MORAY MSP Richard Lochhead has been reappointed to his key post of rural affairs and environmental secretary in the Scottish Parliament, it has been announced.
In advance of naming his full cabinet later this week, First Minister Alex Salmond confirmed that he will be picking Mr Lochhead to serve in the same position he held before the SNP swept to victory in the Scottish elections a fortnight ago.
Speaking in advance of the formal announcement, a spokesman for Mr Salmond said: "Cabinet and ministerial appointments will be announced this week, but we can confirm that Richard Lochhead will be reappointed to his post as rural affairs and environment secretary.
"When the SNP were elected for the first time four years ago, we were determined to have an administration that recognised the massive contribution our farmers, fishermen and rural communities make to Scotland’s economic and environmental well-being.
"We’ve promoted Scotland’s top quality produce – sales of Scottish food and drink have increased by 30 per cent since the SNP came to office. Richard Lochhead has been a powerful advocate for our rural communities throughout his time in government."
Mr Lochhead’s appointment has been supported by a number of industry figures including National Farmers Union of Scotland past-president John Cameron, food and drink writer Lady Claire MacDonald, and Scotland’s Tenant Farmers Association leader Angus McCall.
For the full story, see Friday's edition of 'The Scot'.
