A local politician has scooped a top award for achievement at a prestigious ceremony in Edinburgh.
Dumfries and Galloway MP and Scottish Secretary Alister Jack impressed a panel of judges in The Herald Scottish Politician of the Year Awards 2023.
He was unanimous choice as Best Scot at Westminster ahead of other contenders SNP group leader Stephen Flynn and Liberal Democrat chief whip Wendy Chamberlain.
Mr Jack, a farmer and businessman, has represented the sprawling largely rural constituency, which stretches from Dumfries to Stranraer, since 2017.
The Conservative politician, who plans to step down at the next general election, has emphasised his mission as first and foremost being an effective MP representing his constituents whatever their political preferences.
But some parliamentary observers suggest that Mr Jack’s performance as Scottish Secretary in raising awareness of the important role played by the UK Government north of the border helped him secure the accolade.
He also intervened on several issues where he judged certain controversial SNP-Green legislative proposals at Holyrood would be better delivered at a UK-wide level and timetable and attracted positive attention on helping push through progressive investment measures such as two green Freeports north of the border.
Mr Jack’s effectiveness in drawing a line in the sand where he believed political rivals, seeking to split up the UK, were pushing the boundaries of the devolution settlement for their own agenda was noted.
After the ceremony, Mr Jack said: “As I’ve always stated, providing a voice for such a friendly and beautiful area as Dumfries and Galloway, and encouraging investment, has always been my priority and I consider the role a great privilege.
“For all politicians in a democracy it is for others to judge our performance and the policies we stand on at the ballot box but I was naturally pleased to have been nominated and subsequently chosen for this award.”
Picture: The Herald, Glasgow