A CLACKS MSP has been appointed as a shadow minister under the Scottish Conservatives' new leadership.

Alexander Stewart, MSP for Mid-Scotland and Fife, was named the shadow minister for local government and public finance.

He has been entrusted with this responsibility by Russell Findlay, the Tory party’s new leader, as he unveiled his shadow ministerial team on Tuesday, October 8.

Mr Stewart said: “I am delighted to have been appointed Scottish Conservatives’ shadow minister for local government and public finance by our new party leader and MSP colleague, Russell Findlay.

“The shadow ministerial local government role is one that I have been pleased to have held before during my two parliamentary sessions and is one that I bring a wealth of experience to, following my near two-decade tenure as a councillor and group leader, prior to being elected as MSP in 2016.

“I am also equally delighted to retain my deputy convenorship of the Scottish Parliament’s constitution, Europe, external affairs and culture committee.

“These are roles that I very much enjoy working within, and I am looking forward to getting started with immediate effect.”

Mr Stewart’s appointment comes as the Tory party look to regain votes lost in the recent elections.

Mr Findlay added: “Our new shadow cabinet will work hard to earn the trust of the public by telling it straight and only making promises we can keep.

“We are ready to stand up for everyone who feels disillusioned with the state of politics and the fringe obsessions of the Scottish Parliament.”