Angus Brendan MacNeil was born and brought up in Tangasdale, on the Isle of Barra. He was educated at Castlebay School, Isle of Barra; The Nicolson Institute, Isle of Lewis; Strathclyde University and Jordanhill, Glasgow.

After working as a journalist with the BBC, he taught for two years in Salen, Isle of Mull, where he started the Gaelic Medium Unit. He then worked as Gaelic Development Officer at Lochaber before returning to Barra to teach at Eoligarry Primary School from 1999 to 2005.

Angus Brendan has three daughters. He is an active crofter and enjoys fishing and football.

Angus Brendan was elected MP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar in 2005 and he has a high profile throughout his constituency. He has successfully fought for his constituents on issues as varied as coastguards, fishing, fuel and mobile phone connectivity.

Angus Brendan is Chair of the International Trade Select Committee.