Argyll and Bute MSP Michael Russell has been appointed Scotland’s new Brexit minister by Nicola Sturgeon.
The First Minister announced that the former Cabinet Secretary will be returning to government to ensure “Scotland’s voice is heard loudly and clearly” during the UK-wide negotiations to leave the EU.
The MSP, who has represented Argyll and Bute since 2011, said he was “delighted” to take up the role and insisted he was “absolutely focused on the importance of the EU to Scotland’s economy and our people”.
The UK Government has yet to trigger Article 50 – the process for leaving the EU – despite the UK-wide vote to quit the continental block on June 23.
While the UK as a whole voted to break with Brussels, a majority of Scots – along with the Northern Irish and Londoners – voted Remain.
Announcing the appointment yesterday, Ms Sturgeon said: “By putting a dedicated and experienced Minister at their centre, it will ensure Scotland’s voice is heard loudly and clearly.
“I am confident that Michael Russell will make strong and constructive representation to the UK Government throughout this process.
“In the period ahead of Article 50 being triggered, influencing the UK position will be crucial to our efforts to protect Scotland’s interests and our relationship with Europe, especially the single market.”
Mr Russell was previously Minister for Environment from 2007 until 2009 and then served as Minister for Culture, External Affairs and the Constitution before moving to the role of Cabinet Secretary for Education which he held until 2014.
He said: “While the UK Government is obviously still very unclear about what kind of relationship it wants with the European Union, the Scottish Government is absolutely focused on the importance of the EU to Scotland’s economy and our people.
“Those priorities will be at the heart of our approach to the negotiations.
“Following the overwhelming vote in Scotland to remain in the EU, it is essential that Scotland comes together to defend our national interest. Accordingly in these discussions, it is important that the nation speaks, as much as possible, with one voice.
“I will therefore want to listen and learn from the widest range of individuals, communities, organisations and companies about their hopes and fears for the future.”
Earlier this week, the First Minister also announced she would convene a new Cabinet Sub Committee – bringing relevant ministers together – to oversee and direct all work on EU-related matters.
The new minister, who will report directly to the First Minister, is expected to attend the second meeting of the EU Standing Council at the First Minister’s invitation next week.
