The first-minister-in-waiting said he will instead use a civil service press officer to brief the media, rather than the previously much-favoured political advisers used by many ministers.
The move is designed to break the culture of spin, according to McConnell, quoted in Scottish financial daily Business a.m. this morning.
However, quite how much of a break it will be is unclear. While his press officer will be politically impartial, McConnell is almost certain to appoint a number of behind-the-scenes advisers.
McConnell's move to oust spin follows the recent furore involving Jo Moore, an adviser to trade minister Stephen Byers. Moore sent an email out on September 11, which said this would be a good day to get bad news out. Moore has, against the odds, refused to resign and has hung on to her job.
The changes in Scotland reflect those in London. Alastair Campbell has now taken a more behind-the-scenes role, while a civil servant acts as Tony Blair's spokesman.
McConnell will be confirmed as the leader of the Scottish Labour Party on Saturday, with his appointment as first minister due next week.
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