First Minister

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.

Supporting Ministers

• Minister for Drugs and Alcohol Policy
• Minister for Independence