Protecting, strengthening and renewing the NHS
First Minister sets out major increase in NHS capacity.
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
Storm recovery operation continues
Considerable progress made but impacts continue.
Recovering from Storm Éowyn
First Minister thanks people for patience as recovery operation continues.
Speeches and statements
Improving public services and NHS renewal: First Minister's speech - 27 January 2025
First Minister John Swinney's speech about improving public services and NHS renewal, given at the National Robotarium in Edinburgh, on Monday 27 January 2025.
The paths to prosperity for Scotland: First Minister's speech - 22 January 2025
First Minister John Swinney's speech about the paths to prosperity for Scotland, given at JP Morgan Chase & Co in Glasgow on Wednesday 22 January 2025.
Vision for eradicating child poverty in Scotland: First Minister's speech - 15 January 2025
First Minister John Swinney's speech on tackling child poverty in Scotland, given at the Barracks Conference Centre, Stirling on Wednesday 15 January 2025.
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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