SNP MP takes up visiting professorship

* Alex Salmond, former leader of the Scottish National Party, has been appointed visiting professor of economics at Strathclyde University.

Mr Salmond began his career in the government economic service before joining the Royal Bank of Scotland as an economist. He gave up his professional post to become an MP in 1987. He has been quoted as saying: "I enjoy lecturing and this will guarantee me a captive audience."

Wendy Alexander, the former enterprise, transport and lifelong learning minister for Scotland, was appointed visiting professor at Strathclyde Business School in September.