MP LUKE GRAHAM has received a promotion in the UK Government this week, marking his first rung on the ladder.

The Ochil and South Perthshire representative has been handed the position of parliamentary private secretary for the Cabinet Office, announced Downing Street on Monday, September 3.

He joins a team that has a responsibility for he constitution, civil service and leads on communication and relations between Westminster and Holyrood.

Mr Graham hopes to focus on the latter as Brexit proceeds, with a particular interest in constitutional issues.

He said: “I’m extremely grateful for this opportunity to serve such an important department, with responsibility for the constitution and the machinery of government, especially at this highly political moment in time.

“I am looking forward to this opportunity and ensuring Scotland remains at the heart of the United Kingdom, and its government departments.

“Although the new role will keep me busy whilst in Westminster, my focus remains on delivering local action and a national voice for Ochil and South Perthshire.”