THE MSP for South Scotland Carol Mochan has said she will raise the issue of "unimaginable pressure NHS staff" in her new role on Scottish Labour’s frontbench.

The Ayrshire-based MSP has been promoted to the position of Public Health and Women’s Health spokesperson for the party ahead of a UK General Election next year.

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Ms Mochan said: “I am delighted to be back at the top table championing these vital issues. I fully intend on using my position to raise a number of key issues affecting our region, including the concerning lack of help for women going through menopause and the unimaginable pressure NHS staff are being put under by a lack of capacity and support.

“We are seeing beds axed at Ayr hospital and the social care system put under untenable strain, particularly in remote areas where support is already in short supply.

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"I want to raise awareness and present solutions to these problems.

“It is absolutely imperative that the our region has a voice on the national stage and at all times I will do my best to pursue that whilst doing the vital work of presenting an alternative programme for government here in Scotland and across the UK.”