Scottish Ministerial Code: 2026 Edition

Foreword by the First Minister

This Government was elected with a clear responsibility to improve the lives of the people of Scotland. Delivering on that responsibility requires effective leadership, collective endeavour and the highest standards of conduct. The quality of our decisions depends not only on the policies we pursue, but on the integrity with which we pursue them.

The people of Scotland rightly expect the highest standards from those entrusted with public office. Ministers exercise significant responsibilities on behalf of the public, and with those responsibilities comes a duty to act with integrity, openness, accountability and respect for the democratic institutions that serve our country.

This edition of the Scottish Ministerial Code sets out the standards and principles that must guide the conduct of every member of the Scottish Government. It is both a practical guide and a statement of the values that underpin public service in Scotland. The Code reflects our commitment to leading with clarity, energy and purpose, and to maintaining the confidence that the people of Scotland place in those elected to serve them.

Public trust is hard won and easily lost. At a time when citizens rightly expect transparency in decision-making and accountability from those who hold power, adherence to the Ministerial Code is more important than ever. Ministers must not only comply with the letter of the Code, but embrace its spirit in all aspects of their work. That means acting honestly, being open about decisions and interests, respecting Parliament and the rule of law, and ensuring that the public interest remains at the centre of government.

The Code continues to support robust arrangements for independent scrutiny and investigation where concerns arise. Those arrangements are an important part of ensuring confidence in our system of government and reinforcing the principle that Ministers are accountable for their actions.

As First Minister, I am committed to leading a Government that works in the interests of all of Scotland. I want our public life to be characterised by respect, responsibility and a strong sense of common purpose. Every Minister has a personal responsibility to uphold the standards contained in this Code and to demonstrate, through their conduct, the values that the people of Scotland are entitled to expect.

I commend this edition of the Scottish Ministerial Code to all members of the Scottish Government and to the wider public whom we serve.

Rt Hon John Swinney MSP First Minister of Scotland