Highlands and Islands MSP Jamie Halcro Johnston has been appointed to the Scottish Conservative Shadow Cabinet by party leader, Douglas Ross.
Mr Halcro Johnston, who is from Orkney and whose family farm in the islands, will become Shadow Cabinet Secretary for the Rural Economy and Tourism.
He 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.
“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 & drink sector and for Scottish tourism”.
Douglas Ross said: “I’m delighted to appoint Jamie to the Shadow Cabinet and I’m sure he will be a real asset not only for the party, but 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. Earlier today, his work paid off as he’s managed to get the SNP Government to finally start acting on his member’s bill to protect the title of electricians and properly regulate the profession.
“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.”
