Scottish recipients of The Elizabeth Emblem
First Minister marks lives given in public service.
Current role holder: John Swinney MSP
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.
First Minister marks lives given in public service.
£4 million programme to encourage new approaches and collaboration across the museum sector.
Supporting those with a history of problematic substance use to enter employment.
Statement by First Minister John Swinney in the Scottish Parliament on Wednesday 25 June 2025.
Speech given by First Minister John Swinney at the Scotland 2050 Conference in Edinburgh on Tuesday 17 June 2025.
Speech by First Minister John Swinney at the Imaging Centre of Excellence (ICE) at Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow.
Watch live or view past recordings of First Minister's Questions on the Scottish Parliament website.
Follow the First Minister, John Swinney on Twitter to receive regular updates.
Find out more information about John Swinney's journey into the role of First Minister.
First Minister
Scottish Government
St Andrew's House
Regent Road
Edinburgh
EH1 3DG