The Labour Party has today appointed Drew Smith as the acting General Secretary of the Scottish Labour Party.
Smith, who is currently GMB Scotland’s Policy & External Affairs Officer, is also a former MSP and served as a front bench spokesperson. Smith will take up his position on 4 January 2021 and will serve as acting General Secretary until the Scottish Parliamentary Elections in May 2021.
Mr Smith said: “2021 is both an important and fast-approaching election for Scotland and for the Labour Party. The events of the last year have shown more than ever how important it is that the voices of working people are heard in Scottish politics.
“The campaign ahead is our chance to take our message to the people of Scotland, but also for all of the talented and committed people already in our party to be included and to get involved.
“Working together, I believe we can see our party growing again and I will also work hard to again make Scottish Labour a welcoming place for all who share our values.”
The Leader of the Scottish Labour Party, Richard Leonard, said: “I am looking forward to working with Drew to gear up the Party for next year’s election. He is an experienced campaigner and widely respected across the Labour movement.
“Together we will ensure that we have a positive and distinctive Scottish Labour message to take to the people of Scotland. I am delighted that he has agreed to take up this post.
“Now more than ever we need a Scottish Parliament and Scottish Government which is dedicated to tackling the public health crisis and the jobs and economic crisis which the country faces.
“I know that we will work well together in the battle to win Labour votes and Labour seats in the 135 days between now and the election.”
The General Secretary of the Labour Party, David Evans, said: “I want to congratulate Drew on his appointment as acting General Secretary.
“Drew brings years of experience to this important role and he is widely respected throughout our movement.
“Drew knows exactly what it takes to return Labour to power in Scotland and bring an end to the years of nationalist misrule.
“I look forward to working with him on the planning of the Scottish Parliament Election.”
Founding Editor of The Edinburgh Reporter.
Edinburgh-born multimedia journalist and iPhoneographer.
