THE Speaker of the House of Keys is in Scotland today to attend the opening of the Scottish Parliament.

Steve Rodan is in Edinburgh for the opening of the fourth session at the invitation of Tricia Marwick MSP – the parliament's presiding officer.

The Queen will address guests in the parliament's debating chamber and Mr Rodan will then witness a "riding" reflecting Scotland's achievements and aspirations.

This will be followed by lunch with other speakers and presiding officers from the UK and Crown dependencies.

Speaking about the trip Mr Rodan said: "I am looking forward to attending the opening of the Scottish Parliament.

"Maintaining links between Tynwald and the legislatures of the surrounding jurisdictions is an important part of ensuring that the voice of the Isle of Man is heard by opinion formers and policy makers throughout the British Isles."

Yesterday it was revealed that Mr Rodan will stand for the position of President of Tynwald.

Also see: Steve Rodan announces he will stand for President of Tynwald