Reid moved in Cabinet reshuffle

Dr John Reid is eyeing a new defence portfolio

Scots have enjoyed prominent roles in Prime Minister Tony Blair's Cabinet reshuffle following Labour's general election success.

Dr John Reid has been handed the defence secretary role, while former Immigration Minister Des Browne becomes the chief secretary to the Treasury.

Gordon Brown remains as chancellor and Alistair Darling retains his dual role as transport and Scottish secretary.

Douglas Alexander will attend Cabinet as Europe minister.

In the run up to the referendum on a European constitution, it is being viewed as a key role.

The MP for Paisley and Renfrewshire South is regarded by many as a ministerial high-flyer and close to the chancellor.

Historic election

Lord Falconer retains his role as Lord Chancellor and Ian McCartney will attend Cabinet as minister without portfolio.

David Blunkett has returned to the Cabinet as work and pensions secretary, while Alan Johnson takes the new post of secretary for productivity, energy and industry.

Foreign Secretary Jack Straw and Home Secretary Charles Clarke remain in their posts.

The reshuffle sees John Prescott lose some of his departmental empire.

The shake-up came after Mr Blair won an historic third term - but with a majority cut from 167 in 2001 to 66.

Mr Blair said he had "listened and learned" after the election result.