DOUGLAS Ross is to continue his refereeing career in his new role as Scottish Tory leader, it has been announced.

The Moray MP will be one of the assistant referees for Rangers vs St Mirren on Sunday.

Ross has worked as an assistant referee at Scottish Cup Finals, and has continued his involvement in Scottish football matches while his profile in politics has grown.

In February he was blasted after he refused a TV debate on his government’s derided immigration plans to referee a football match in Ukraine.

Ross was installed as Jackson Carlaw’s successor today, facing no opposition.

READ MORE: Douglas Ross concedes defeat to SNP on first day as Scottish Tory leader

Ross is expected to contest a seat at the Holyrood election in 2021.

In a statement, he said: “My focus now is on earning the support and trust of people across Scotland who are looking for a positive and credible alternative in Scotland, and who want a fresh start for our country.

“In taking on this job today, I am applying for another: to champion a post-referendum Scotland where we focus not on the divisions of the past but on rebuilding our country from the brink, restoring our reputation for educational excellence, empowering our regions and remote communities, and providing the decent jobs that everyone can aspire to.

“I am applying to work for anyone and everyone in Scotland who wants that to be the focus of our national debate, who wants to move the country forward, and wants that work to start now.”