Kirkcaldy MP has joined the Scotland Office in Andy Burnham’s new-look government.

Melanie Ward has been appointed as a parliamentary under-secretary of state in the Scotland Office, led by Douglas Alexander.

The move came as Burnham moved into 10 Downing Street after replacing Sir Keir Starmer who stepped down after just two years as Prime Minister.

Ms Ward, MP for Cowdenbeath and Kirkcaldy, said she was “delighted” to have been asked to serve. She previously was a parliamentary private secretary for Justice Secretary, David Lammey - a post she quit in May in protest against Sir Keir’s leadership.

Melanie Ward with Andy Burnham (Pic: Contributed)

placeholder image — Melanie Ward with Andy Burnham (Pic: Contributed)

She said: “I am delighted to have been asked by the Prime Minister to serve as a Minister in the Scotland Office.

“I am honoured to serve in Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s new government and to be part of putting Scotland at the centre of the positive change that lies ahead.

“People are going to be at the heart of everything we do – from helping to ease the cost of living, to generating growth that will create new jobs, to pushing power out into communities.

“Scotland has an abundance of talent and opportunities and I look forward to working with Secretary of State Douglas Alexander to deliver for our people.” She added: “I want to assure constituents that you will remain my first priority. My team and I continue to be available to assist you as usual.”