Mr Douglas Alexander
Labour (Co-op) · Lothian East
FULL PROFILEMr Douglas Alexander is the Labour (Co-op) MP for Lothian East, first elected in 2024. He is 58 years old. He currently serves as Secretary of State for Scotland. As a payroll vote member, they are expected to vote with the government on virtually all divisions.
Ideology
Voting Behaviour
Key Interests
Trade negotiations · Scottish affairs · Economic development · EU relations · Regional policy
Positions
Trade Policy — Pro-international trade deals, particularly with India and EU
strong
Scottish Devolution — Supports devolution within UK framework, opposes independence
strong
Economic Development — Government-led investment in regional development and high streets
strong
Steel Industry — Strong support for UK steel industry protection
moderate
EU Relations — Closer economic ties with EU while respecting Brexit
strong
Tax Policy — Progressive taxation including higher rates for wealthy
moderate
Animal Welfare — Supports fox hunting ban
weak
Healthcare — Opposes NHS privatisation through foundation hospitals
weak
Reasoning Style
Pragmatic and experience-based, drawing on extensive ministerial background. Focuses on practical economic outcomes and constituency benefits. Uses detailed policy knowledge and international experience to make evidence-based arguments.
Background
Douglas Alexander is a veteran Labour politician who previously served as an MP from 1997-2015, holding senior ministerial positions including Secretary of State for International Development and Shadow Foreign Secretary. He returned to Parliament in 2024 after nearly a decade away from frontline politics.