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.
- Read the First Minister's biography.
- Find out more about the history of the office of the First Minister.
- Get in touch with the First Minister: [email protected].
News
Funding for trade union learning
Support for workplace learning and promoting fair work.
New zero emission buses
£41.7 million investment in bus decarbonisation.
Speeches and statements
International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance reception: First Minister speech
First Minister John Swinney's speech at the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance reception (IHRA) at Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum on Wednesday 26 June.
Royal Highland Show 2024: First Minister's speech
First Minister John Swinney's keynote speech at the Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) Breakfast event at the Royal Highland Show 2024.
Priorities for Scotland: First Minister's statement - 22 May 2024
Statement by First Minister John Swinney to the Scottish Parliament on 22 May 2024.
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
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First Minister
Scottish Government
St Andrew's House
Regent Road
Edinburgh
EH1 3DG
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