SCOTTISH Labour leader Anas Sarwar outlined his front-bench team today after being elected leader at the weekend, with his predecessor Richard Leonard reportedly refusing a spot in the shadow cabinet.

The Glasgow MSP, who was elected on Saturday after defeating his colleague Monica Lennon in a vote of members, said his party was “in a difficult place” ahead of this year’s Holyrood election but said his priority was to win as many seats as possible. 

Mr Sarwar’s “campaign cabinet” includes sitting MSPs and those vying for a place in the Scottish Parliament, with Ms Lennon among them as economy and fair work spokeswoman. 

Mr Sarwar said former leader Mr Leonard “didn’t feel that he wanted to come back on the front bench” but said his predecessor “has been nothing but supportive and warm” to him.

Socialist-backed candidates including former MPs Katy Clark and Paul Sweeney, as well as trade unionist Carol Mochan, were also given roles.