New Culture Minister in Scotland

NEIL GRAY is joining the Scottish Government as Minister for Culture, Europe and International Development.

The SNP politician replaces outgoing Culture Minister JENNY GILRUTH, who takes up a new role as Minister for Transport.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon says the changes reflect a vote of confidence in a new generation of ministerial talent, adding Gray had shown "real promise" as Convener of the Social Justice and Social Security committee.

Gray said: “I look forward to building on the great work of my predecessor by further strengthening our relations across the globe and supporting the creative industries as they set out to recover from some of the hardest years for the sector in recent memory.”