The First Minister has brought farmer Jim Fairlie into government in a bid to bolster the rural portfolio.

The move is part of a mini-reshuffle triggered by the resignation of beleaguered health secretary Michael Matheson ahead of the publication of a report into an £11,000 data roaming bill on his parliamentary iPad.

Another minister, Elena Whitham also resigned from her drugs brief this week citing health reasons.

Mr Fairlie joins the government as minister for agriculture and connectivity.

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The First Minister said: “I am delighted to welcome Jim Fairlie to government, who brings a wealth of business and rural knowledge to his new role as minister for agriculture and connectivity.”

Mr Yousaf added later: “I’m bringing Jim in because he’s exceptionally capable and really well-liked by agri stakeholders and has immense experience in relation to agriculture and farming – he’s going to be a great addition to the government team.”

Industry previously expressed concern that there was no minister in a supporting role to Mairi Gougeon following a previous reshuffle.

There is also speculation the appointment of Mr Fairlie is a move bring allies of former leadership hopeful Kate Forbes closer into the government fold.

Taking to social media, Ms Forbes said: “Can’t get better than Jim Fairlie. First class appointment who will represent rural Scotland and everybody else exceptionally well.”

Mr Fairlie, who wrote for The Scottish Farmer this week, has been outspoken on a range of issues including attacks on sheep by dogs, as well as being critical of the UK-Australia trade deal.

Born in Perth, Mr Fairlie began his career as a shepherd before becoming a hill farmer. In addition, he developed a food and events catering business.

He sits on the rural affairs and island committee at Holyrood and is a substitute committee member on the constitution committee and net zero, energy and transport committee.

His appointment, which took place ahead of the First Minister appearing at the NFUS AGM and conference in Glasgow, requires ratification of parliament which will take place following the current recess.

Announcing the new roles, which saw Neil Gray take up the role of cabinet secretary for NHS recovery, health and social care and veteran MSP Fiona Hyslop become transport secretary, Humza Yousaf said: “The new, green economy is a massive economic opportunity for Scotland. If we grasp it, we can help the world tackle climate change while delivering well-paid jobs and sustainable growth in Scotland for generations to come. That’s why we will now bring these two portfolios together, and Màiri McAllan is the right person to drive it forward.

“As economy secretary, Neil Gray has been widely praised for resetting the relationship with business. Now at the helm of the NHS – our most precious institution – and social care, Neil will be charged with continuing its recovery from COVID, driving down waiting times, and reforming the service to improve outcomes for patients.

“I am elevating transport to a cabinet level post in its own right, given the importance of the issues within this portfolio. Fiona Hyslop is one of the most experienced and accomplished ministers in the government. I am deeply proud of the fact this means Cabinet will become world-leading with seven out of ten women in it

“I am proud to bring the first ever woman of colour into government in Scotland – I believe another sign of the progress we are making as a nation, with the appointment of Kaukab Stewart as minister for culture, Europe and international development. Kaukab takes this role on from Christina McKelvie, who will now report directly to me as minister for drugs and alcohol policy.”