Carmichael the new Scottish secretary

SHETLAND and Orkney MP Alistair Carmichael has been made secretary of state for Scotland in the latest government reshuffle.

Previously the LibDems’ chief whip, Carmichael is replacing Michael Moore who has been in the post for more than three years.

Carmichael is widely seen as the more “combative” and “feisty” figure to take on Alex Salmond and the SNP in the run up to the Scottish independence referendum, in September next year.

Speaking from London on Monday morning, the 48-year old said he was delighted with the appointment.

A disappointed Moore tweeted: “Has been a great privilege to serve as Scottish Secretary. Proud of the Scotland Act and Edinburgh Agreement and wish Alistair all the best.”