JAMIE HALCRO Johnston has been appointed as the Scottish Conservative spokesperson for tourism and the rural economy, replacing Oliver Mundell, who quit the role last week after voting against his party's whip on coronavirus travel restrictions.

Mr Halcro Johnston, who is from Orkney and whose family farm in the islands, is now the third Conservative MSP to assume the role in the past year, with Rachael Hamilton in post at the start of 2020, before Mr Mundell was appointed in August.

Commenting on his promotion to the Shadow Cabinet, Mr Halcro Johnston said: “I’m delighted to take on this vital role, one which has particular importance to my region.

“The Scottish Government has left behind too many parts of Scotland over the last 13 years and, as an MSP for the Highlands and Islands, I know only too well the impact that has had on a region the current Central Belt focused government in Edinburgh simply doesn’t understand," he claimed.

“I’m looking forward to getting started, meeting with key industry representatives from across Scotland and putting forward ideas to deliver for rural Scotland, our world-leading food and drink sector and for Scottish tourism."

Party leader Douglas Ross said that Mr Halcro Johnston would be a 'real asset' for rural communities across Scotland: “Jamie has demonstrated for several years now how effective he can be, especially when bringing forward new ideas and holding the government to account. Like me, Jamie comes from a farming background and we are determined to speak up for our farmers and those living in rural communities who have been let down by the SNP.”

Mr Mundell quit the Scottish Conservative frontbench after defying his party’s whip and failing to support restrictions making it an offence to travel outside Scotland, except for specific reasons including work, essential shopping and exercise.

After his decision, Mr Mundell said: “On this occasion it was sadly not possible to balance the very specific needs of my constituents with the need to take a collective view as a party that works for the whole country.

“I understand the difficult position that puts colleagues in and I have therefore regrettably offered Douglas Ross my resignation as a party spokesperson."