Changes to the Ministerial team: Letter from First Minister to the Presiding Officer

CHANGES TO THE SCOTTISH MINISTERIAL TEAM

Dear Presiding Officer,

I am writing to advise you that I have today made the following changes to my Ministerial team:

Màiri McAllan has been appointed as Cabinet Secretary for Housing upon her return to government from maternity leave. Ms McAllan has responsibility for all aspects of housing policy, including heat in buildings. This appointment will ensure government action is focused on tackling the housing emergency and providing energy efficient homes for the future - helping stimulate economic growth, deliver Net Zero commitments and tackle child poverty.

Gillian Martin has been appointed as Cabinet Secretary for Climate Action and Energy, having held the portfolio during Ms McAllan's maternity leave.

Following the death of Christina McKelvie in March, Maree Todd will become Minister for Drugs and Alcohol Policy, while retaining her existing responsibility for Sport. Tom Arthur has been appointed as Minister for Social Care and Mental Wellbeing. 

Tom Arthur was previously Minister for Employment and Investment. His investment responsibilities will be assumed by Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes and Minister for Business Richard Lochhead's extended responsibilities see him become Minister for Business and Employment. 

Housing Minister Paul McLennan has left the Scottish Government today and acting Minister for Climate Action Alasdair Allan will leave government at the end of this week.

Yours sincerely,

John Swinney