News

Two former social work staff have been promoted in a Scottish executive reshuffle following the shock resignation of Wendy Alexander, minister of enterprise, transport and lifelong learning.

Margaret Curran, former community worker and lecturer in community education, has been appointed as minister for social justice. Previously the deputy minister for the same portfolio, Curran moves up to take the place of Iain Gray who has been appointed to the post formerly held by Alexander.

Hugh Henry, former welfare rights officer, moves sideways to the post of deputy minister for social justice from his present post as deputy minister for health and community care. Curran and Henry’s wide brief in social justice includes the major transfer of Glasgow council’s housing stock to the independent Glasgow Housing Association, as well as community regeneration and tackling child poverty.

Henry’s previous role as deputy minister of health and community care, is to be taken over by Frank McAveety, former leader of Glasgow council.