Ian has vowed to be a trusted friend to Scotland’s businesses, after being promoted onto the shadow front bench.

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Ian was appointed to the shadow Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) team by leader of the Labour Party Ed Miliband.

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His responsibilities within the team will encompass a wide range of issues -; including employee relations, trade and competition policy, company law, consumer affairs and postal affairs.

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Above all, he hopes his presence on the team will ensure the interests of businesses and consumers in Scotland are always fully considered in Westminster.

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Following his appointment, Ian said: “Scotland has a wealth of successful and vastly diverse businesses, of which we can be very proud. And I hope that as part of the new shadow BIS team I will be able to highlight many of our businesses on the UK stage.

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“But I also recognise that in the current economic climate many of our companies are facing significant pressures. And I want to make sure their concerns have a strong voice too.

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“Many of our businesses are already hurting because of the decisions and policies of the current Government. As part of the shadow team I am determined to stand up for our businesses, employees and consumers. And I aim to press the Government to ensure everything possible is being done to support our businesses and employees at this difficult time.”

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Until the reshuffle, Ian -; who ran his own business before entering Parliament -; was Parliamentary Private Secretary to Ivan Lewis, the former shadow culture secretary.

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He is one of a number of the 2010 intake of MPs who have been promoted to the front bench, following a reshuffle of the shadow cabinet.

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He said: “I am delighted to have been asked to take on this role as part of the shadow Business, Innovation and Skills team. It will bring with it huge responsibilities, but I am excited by the challenge that will involve.”

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The cabinet reshuffle followed a change in Labour Party rules at annual conference, which means the shadow cabinet can be appointed by the Party leader, rather than elected.