Scottish recipients of The Elizabeth Emblem
First Minister marks lives given in public service.
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: firstminister@gov.scot.
News
Museum Futures Programme launched
£4 million programme to encourage new approaches and collaboration across the museum sector.
Helping more people enter the workforce
Supporting those with a history of problematic substance use to enter employment.
Speeches and statements
Historical policies affecting Gypsy/Traveller communities: First Minister's statement
Statement by First Minister John Swinney in the Scottish Parliament on Wednesday 25 June 2025.
Scotland 2050 Conference: First Minister's speech - 17 June 2025
Speech given by First Minister John Swinney at the Scotland 2050 Conference in Edinburgh on Tuesday 17 June 2025.
National renewal and prevention: First Minister's speech - 16 June 2025
Speech by First Minister John Swinney at the Imaging Centre of Excellence (ICE) at Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow.
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