BORDERS MSP Rachael Hamilton has been appointed as a member of the shadow cabinet in the Scottish Parliament.

Rachael Hamilton, of the Scottish Conservatives, has been named as the shadow cabinet secretary for rural affairs and islands.

Her party’s leader Douglas Ross announced his shadow cabinet on Thursday (May 20).

Mrs Hamilton, who represents Ettrick, Roxburgh and Berwickshire, said she is “delighted” about her appointment.

“This is a significant opportunity, and I am ready to hit the ground running in order to improve our countryside and those who work so hard to look after it,” she said.

Between February and August 2020, Mrs Hamilton held the role of shadow cabinet secretary for rural affairs and tourism.

She said: “From helping my father on the family farm when I was younger, to working as an agronomist, I understand the sector well.

“My previous track record in the industry stands me in good stead for advancing this role and making sure rural voices are heard.

“Farming, rural life and the countryside must be protected from an increasingly Central Belt-focused SNP government.

“Going forward we must see more support to drive productivity and efficiency in agriculture, through new training schemes and farm diversification.

"On climate change, farmers must be fully supported to reduce emissions through improved Agri-Environment Climate Schemes; not lectured about what they should and shouldn’t do, without the right financial support.

“I am keen to champion new entrants and young farmers, to ensure we see new blood and an industry that passes the reins onto the next generation successfully.”