Scottish Ministerial Code: 2025 Edition

Chapter 12: Ministers’ Obligations on Leaving Office

Memoirs

12.1 Former Ministers intending to publish their memoirs are required to submit the draft manuscript in good time before publication to the Permanent Secretary and to conform to the principles set out in the Radcliffe Report of 1976.^[35]

Acceptance of Appointments after Leaving Government Office

12.2 On leaving office, Ministers will be prohibited from lobbying Government for two years. They must also seek advice from the Independent Advisers on the Scottish Ministerial Code about any appointments or employment they wish to take up within two years of leaving office.^[36] Former Ministers must ensure that no new appointments are announced, or taken up, before the Independent Advisers have been able to provide their advice. Former Ministers must abide by the advice of the Independent Advisers.

Official Papers held by Ministers Relinquishing Office

12.3 Ministers relinquishing office should return to their Private Office any Cabinet documents and/or other official papers in their possession, along with any devices and equipment supplied by the Scottish Government.