Tony Blair's Scottish secretary made minister again by Keir Starmer

The Lothian East MP is among the Tony Blair and Gordon Brown era politicians to join the Prime Minister's top team.

Tony Blair’s Scottish secretary Douglas Alexander appointed minister by Keir StarmerGetty Images

Former Scottish secretary Douglas Alexander has joined Keir Starmer’s team as business minister.

The veteran politician was elected as the MP for Lothian East on Friday after losing his seat in 2015.

He was a longtime Cabinet member under Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, serving in various roles including transport secretary and international development secretary.

He joins former home secretary Jacqui Smith – who was appointed to the House of Lords and given the role of higher education minister – as the Blair and Brown era politicians to join the Labour top team.

Ian Murray, who at times was Scottish Labour’s sole MP before Labour’s landslide victory, was made Scottish secretary by Starmer.

The Prime Minister appointed his Cabinet on Friday. Angela Rayner becomes deputy prime minister as well as secretary of state of housing, levelling up and communities.

Rachel Reeves was appointed chancellor while David Lammy was made foreign secretary and Yvette Cooper home secretary.

Glasgow-born Pat McFadden, who represents Wolverhampton South East, is the Duchy of Lancaster.

STV News is now on WhatsApp

Get all the latest news from around the country

Follow STV News
Follow STV News on WhatsApp

Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country

WhatsApp channel QR Code