Tony Blair has appointed Helen Liddell as High Commissioner to Australia.

The former Scottish secretary will take up the post after the next general election should Labour win a third term.

Liddell had already announced her intention to retire from parliament.

She will replace former Conservative chief whip Alastair Goodlad. 

"I have known and worked with Helen Liddell for many years," the prime minister said.

"She has been a valued colleague and a good friend. She has had a long and successful career in both politics and business and will make an outstanding high commissioner in Australia.

"The friendship between Britain and Australia is very important to both countries. 

"Alastair Goodlad, the current high commissioner, is doing an excellent job and I am delighted that we have found such a high calibre of person to succeed him when he finishes his term of office.

"Helen will bring to the post a great deal of valuable experience at the highest level and will, I am sure, be a great success."

Although Liddell said she was "delighted" at her appointment, she paid tribute to her constituents.

"I am delighted to accept the prime minister's invitation to continue to serve the government in a new and very exciting way," she said.

"It is many years since a Labour politician was appointed to a diplomatic post and I am honoured that I should have been chosen.  Australia is a wonderful place, and although I will miss this country, I and my family have been offered the chance of a wonderful experience.

"Without doubt I will miss the people of Airdrie and Shotts who have shown me such loyalty and support. To them and to my constituency party I pledge my continuing commitment on their behalf until I stand down at the election. 

"It has been a great honour to serve them and I know they will give my successor the same friendship and kindness."