THE newly elected MSP has vowed to fight for the poor, disabled and the elderly after being handed a key role in the First Ministers new government.

New Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley MPS was this week appointed as the Minister for Social Security by First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon.

Ms Freeman, who was sworn in as the areas MSP last week. Reacting to her new government position, she said: “I am delighted that the First Minister has appointed me as Minister for Social Security.

"With poverty, support for those with disabilities and older people also in my remit, this is clearly a job which matters to many people, including many in Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley. I’ll work hard to both listen and act to improve the lives of those affected but I will do that hand in hand with my continuing strong focus on representing the people of this constituency well and making sure their voice is heard and their concerns and ideas acted on.”