MORAY’S MP HAS been speaking of his “honour” after being named as a member of the highly influential Privy Council.
Angus Robertson was appointed to the formal body of advisers to the Queen, who members are often senior politicians who can be briefed on sensitive issues under ‘Privy Council terms’.
Mr Robertson’s appointment follows his confirmation as a member of the parliamentary Intelligence and Security Committee, with both appointments resulting from the increased influence the SNP has at Westminster following their massive general election gains earlier this year.
He is the first SNP MP to be appointed to the Privy Council for his role at Westminster since Donald Stewart in 1977.
Mr Robertson said: “I am honoured to be appointed to the Privy Council which will enable me to do my job on the Intelligence and Security Council.
“It is also a recognition that as the third party in the House of Commons the SNP should not be put at a disadvantage when it comes to government information shared on ‘Privy Council terms’.
“With a record number of MPs representing 56 out of 59 Scottish constituencies the SNP has an important role standing up for Scotland’s interests in the House of Commons.
“It is nearly 40 years since Donald Stewart MP became the last SNP parliamentarian to become a member of the Privy Council because of his role at Westminster.”