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First Minister

Current role holder: John Swinney MSP

Responsibilities

As head of the Scottish Government, the First Minister is responsible for the overall development, implementation and presentation of the administration's policies and for promoting and representing Scotland at home and overseas.

Subject to Parliament's agreement, the First Minister appoints other ministers - including a Deputy First Minister and cabinet secretaries - from among Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs).

The First Minister chairs the Scottish Cabinet, the main forum for ministers to consider and make key decisions on the strategic priorities and policies of the government to achieve its objectives.

News

06 November 2024 14:30

US Election

First Minister writes to President-Elect.

28 October 2024 13:30

Local Government pay

First Minister writes to Unison to encourage meaningful dialogue.

Speeches and statements

View First Minister's Questions

Watch live or view past recordings of First Minister's Questions on the Scottish Parliament website.

Follow the First Minister on Twitter

Follow the First Minister, John Swinney on Twitter to receive regular updates.

Read the First Minister's biography

Find out more information about John Swinney's journey into the role of First Minister.

Contact

Address

First Minister
Scottish Government
St Andrew's House
Regent Road
Edinburgh
EH1 3DG

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