Jim Murphy is the Secretary of State for Scotland.

Jim, the MP for East Renfrewshire, was first elected in 1997 and became Minister for Europe in 2007.

He is Scotland's full-time representative in the Cabinet, meaning that Scotland has a dedicated voice in the Cabinet for the first time since 2003.

Jim Murphy says:

“It is a privilege to take on the role of Secretary of State for Scotland. As Scotland’s man in the Cabinet I will represent the interests of Scotland at all times.

“The role offers many challenges and primary among those is continuing to listen to the people of Scotland and making sure their needs, concerns and interests are relayed effectively at the highest level of government and translated into positive action.

“I believe we are best placed to deliver that through the scope and strength of a United Kingdom and the binding threads of its social, economic and cultural life and heritage. There is no doubt we stand stronger together than apart and that our ability to face common challenges is built on the bedrock of our shared values.

“It is also a fact that devolution is working for Scotland, just as it has done over the last decade, and I am determined to maintain and build on the Scotland Office’s role as the guardian of that settlement.

“We are at a pivotal point in Scotland’s history and the return to a dedicated Scottish Secretary role underlines both the Prime Minister and UK Government’s commitment to Scotland’s future.”

Mr Murphy writes a blog here.