First Minister meets new Irish President
FM: Scotland and Ireland have long standing ties and I will continue to champion our historic friendship.
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.
- Follow the First Minister on X and LinkedIn.
- 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
Harnessing data and technology to revolutionise public services
First Minister: “Scotland ready for new phase of digital innovation".
Scottish Government bonds launch planned
FM targets 2026/27 for first national bond.
Speeches and statements
NFUS Annual Conference: First Minister's Speech - 6 February 2026
Speech by First Minister John Swinney at the National Farmers Union of Scotland’s Annual Conference in Glasgow on Friday 6 February.
City of London Burns Supper: First Minister's speech - 26 January 2026
Speech by First Minister John Swinney at Mansion House in London on 26 January 2026.
Glasgow State of the City Economy Conference: First Minister's speech - 28 November 2025
First Minister John Swinney addressed the Glasgow State of the City Economy Conference on 28 November 2025.
View First Minister's Questions
Watch live or view past recordings of First Minister's Questions on the Scottish Parliament website.
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