A FORMER spin-doctor for Scottish Labour is set to work for the Scottish Conservatives, the Herald understands.
Paul Sinclair, who was chief adviser to Scottish Labour leader Johann Lamont from 2011 to 2014, is in talks about working as an external consultant for his old rivals.
It is understood he agreed in principle to work for Ruth Davidson while she was Scottish Tory leader, but will now work alongside her replacement.
READ MORE: The inside story of Lamont's downfall
However there was confusion around the appointment, with the party saying Mr Sinclair was starting work immediately, and Mr Sinclair saying it had not been finalised.
A spokesman for the Scottish Conservatives said: “Paul Sinclair will join the Scottish Conservatives on a consultancy basis.
“This is about stepping up our preparations for the 2021 Holyrood elections, and ensuring Scotland remains a central part of a successful United Kingdom.”
If his hiring is confirmed, Mr Sinclair would work on Scottish Tory communication strategy in the run up to the 2021 Holyrood election.
Mr Sinclair, 53, who currently works as a management consultant, is a close friend of the current head of communications for the Scottish Conservatives, Eddie Barnes.
A party source confirmed Mr Sinclair’s recruitment had raised eyebrows given his Labour roots, but said he was also known as a committed supporter of the Union.
Since leaving his role with Scottish Labour, Mr Sinclair has also been a frequent critic of Jeremy Corbyn as a newspaper columnist.
After the 2015 general election, Mr Sinclair accepted a place on the low-tax commission set up by Ms Davidson.
READ MORE: Former Labour spin-doctor joins Tory tax commission
Asked at the time if taking part meant he was a crypto-Tory, he said: “Nonsense. I joined the Labour party on my 15th birthday and I’m still a member of the Labour party.”
A Scottish Tory party spokesman: "He [Mr Sinclair] is coming in on a consultancy basis as of now.
"I would not be surprised if he was in Holyrood tomorrow."
Mr Sinclair has been asked for comment.
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