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New First Minister of Scotland John Swinney has selected his first Cabinet of Ministers. (Following Article from gov.scot website) ‘Cabinet to drive progress on key challenges for Scotland. First Minister John Swinney has announced a new Scottish Cabinet to help drive real and urgent progress in eradicating child poverty, driving economic growth, and tackling the climate emergency. ‘ The Cabinet of eleven, with a majority of women, is as follows: Kate Forbes, the youngest-ever Deputy First Minister, will take on the Economy portfolio and responsibility for Gaelic Shona Robison remains in Cabinet with responsibility for Finance and Local Government Jenny Gilruth remains Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills Angela Constance remains Cabinet Secretary for Justice and Home Affairs Màiri McAllan remains in Cabinet with responsibility for Net Zero and Energy Fiona Hyslop remains Cabinet Secretary for Transport Neil Gray remains Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care Shirley-Anne Somerville remains Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice Angus Robertson remains Cabinet Secretary for Constitution, External Affairs and Culture Mairi Gougeon remains Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands The First Minister said: “Ahead of my appointment as First Minister, I committed to working collaboratively across the Parliament to address the pressing issues facing the people of Scotland. “With that in mind, I have selected a Cabinet team that blends experience and energy, with a strong focus on the priorities my Government will pursue – eradicating child poverty, driving economic growth, meeting climate obligations and investing in our vital public services. “My overriding priority will be to work to eradicate child poverty in Scotland, an issue on which real progress has been made through measures such as the Scottish Child Payment. The Government I lead will maximise every lever at our disposal to tackle the scourge of poverty in our country. “A strong economy supports the delivery of services on which people depend – health, education, housing, and transport – and so each of these areas are aligned to distinct roles in my Cabinet, with a focus on ensuring people see their lives improve as a result of the actions of their Scottish Government. “I believe that Scotland’s future is best served as an independent country – but I recognise more people need to be convinced of that before independence can be achieved. My Cabinet will also focus efforts on reaching out to those who remain unconvinced, with respect and courtesy, to ensure that the people of Scotland have the democratic right to choose their own future.” Background Cabinet and Ministers – gov.scot (www.gov.scot) The new Scottish Cabinet has been selected by the First Minister. Find out more at https://t.co/CVQI2fhT7s pic.twitter.com/zYoA641Fay — Scottish Government (@scotgov) May 8, 2024 @JohnSwinney has been sworn in as First Minister of Scotland at the Court of Session in Edinburgh. Speaking afterwards, the First Minister said: “I will give everything I have to build the best future for our country.” pic.twitter.com/kVjOSz5vZy — First Minister (@ScotGovFM) May 8, 2024 USEFUL LINKS: SCOT GOV WEBSITE: https://www.gov.scot SCOT GOV FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/TheScottishGovernment/ SCOT GOV TWITTER: https://twitter.com/ScotGov SCOT GOV INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/scotgov/ SCOT GOV YOUR TUBE: https://www.youtube.com/user/scottishgovernment SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT WEBSITE: https://www.parliament.scot/ SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/scottishparliament SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT TWITTER: https://twitter.com/scotparl SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/scotparl/ SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT YOU TUBE: https://www.youtube.com/user/ScottishParl
John Swinney of The Scottish National Party has been elected as the new First Minister of Scotland by The Scottish Parliament. (Following Article from gov.scot website) ‘Parliament votes for John Swinney. John Swinney has been nominated as the seventh First Minister of Scotland, following a vote in the Scottish Parliament today. MSPs voted 64 to 57 to select Mr Swinney as First Minister from a total of four nominees. There were seven abstentions. Mr Swinney is anticipated to be formally appointed as First Minister this afternoon with a Royal Warrant from His Majesty King Charles III. He will be officially sworn in at the Court of Session on Wednesday, where he will take the Official Oath in front of the Lord President of the Court of Session and other senior judges.’ First Minister-designate John Swinney said: “It is an extraordinary privilege and it is my honour to accept the office of First Minister, committing myself to do the best I can for Scotland. “I will be unapologetic about bringing to this Parliament the measures we can take to eradicate child poverty and I look forward to seeking the support of others to achieve that aim. I recognise, that is how it is going to have to work. I am leading a minority Government. I will need to reach out to others to make things happen. If we want to fund our schools and our hospitals, if we want to give our businesses a competitive edge, if we want to take climate action, if we want to eradicate child poverty, if we want to change people’s lives for the better, we have to work together to do so. “I commit my Government to working to create that agreement across the Chamber. I hope there is the space and the willingness for that to happen in the interests of the people who sent us here. “To the people of Scotland I would simply say this. I offer myself to be the First Minister for everyone in Scotland. I am here to serve you. I will give everything I have to build the best future for our country.” Cabinet and Ministers – gov.scot (www.gov.scot) Today @JohnSwinney has been nominated as First Minister by @scotparl. “I offer myself to be the First Minister for everyone in Scotland. I am here to serve you. I will give everything I have to build the best future for our country.” Watch for more. pic.twitter.com/hMNbaC5ViW— Scottish Government (@scotgov) May 7, 2024 @JohnSwinney has been sworn in as First Minister of Scotland at the Court of Session in Edinburgh. Speaking afterwards, the First Minister said: "I will give everything I have to build the best future for our country." pic.twitter.com/kVjOSz5vZy— First Minister (@ScotGovFM) May 8, 2024 USEFUL LINKS: SCOT GOV WEBSITE: https://www.gov.scot SCOT GOV FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/TheScottishGovernment/ SCOT GOV TWITTER: https://twitter.com/ScotGov SCOT GOV INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/scotgov/ SCOT GOV YOUR TUBE: https://www.youtube.com/user/scottishgovernment SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT WEBSITE: https://www.parliament.scot/ SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/scottishparliament SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT TWITTER: https://twitter.com/scotparl SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/scotparl/ SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT YOU TUBE: https://www.youtube.com/user/ScottishParl
New First Minister of Scotland Humza Yousaf has announced the members of the Scottish Governement Ministerial Team. (Following Article from gov.scot website) FM: new team to deliver ‘radical, ambitious and progressive policy agenda’. First Minister Humza Yousaf has unveiled his Cabinet team with five members aged under 40 and, for the first time ever, a majority of women. In a Cabinet of ten that sees the Economy established as a portfolio in its own right: Shona Robison, the new Deputy First Minister, will take on the Finance portfolio, including responsibility for the Scottish Budget Michael Matheson becomes the Cabinet Secretary for NHS Recovery, Health and Social Care Jenny Gilruth joins Cabinet for the first time as Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills Màiri McAllan joins Cabinet for the first time as Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Just Transition Neil Gray joins Cabinet for the first time as Cabinet Secretary for Wellbeing Economy, Fair Work and Energy Mairi Gougeon remains Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands Angus Robertson remains Cabinet Secretary for Constitution, External Affairs and Culture Shirley-Anne Somerville becomes Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice Angela Constance returns to Cabinet as the new Cabinet Secretary for Justice and Home Affairs Meet the new Scottish Cabinet Secretaries⬇️ ℹ️ Those new to the Cabinet will be formally appointed with agreement of @ScotParl and approval by His Majesty The King on Thursday 30 March. Find out more at https://t.co/P9a7Xy0VBF pic.twitter.com/oVkJljRSwg — Scottish Government (@scotgov) March 29, 2023 Parliament will be asked to approve the new Ministerial appointments on Thursday. Commenting, Humza Yousaf said: “The Cabinet team I have unveiled reflects the priorities that we will pursue as a government – including tackling child poverty, improving public services and building a fairer, greener economy. “Ahead of my appointment as First Minister, I have committed myself to a radical, ambitious and progressive policy agenda for Scotland – and I know that this team is the right one to deliver it. “I want to thank those Ministers departing government for their leadership over the last few years, through many storms not of our making – the economic damage caused by Brexit, the COVID-19 pandemic, austerity and the cost of living crisis. Those Ministers – led so ably by Nicola Sturgeon and John Swinney – leave a strong legacy for the new team to build on. “I have made clear my belief Scotland’s government should look as much as possible like the people we represent. As well as being the first ever First Minister from a minority ethnic background, I am pleased that a record number of women have agreed to serve, as well as a significant blend of younger and more experienced members. That said, every single appointment has been made on merit. “Every single person in this government is clear that it is for the people of Scotland to determine their constitutional future – no one else – and we will work to ensure that they are given that right. As we make the case for Scottish independence, we will continue to govern well and demonstrate to the people of Scotland the benefits of decisions about their lives being taken here in Scotland. “Subject to Parliament’s approval, the new Ministerial team is ready to get to work delivering for the people of Scotland.” Background Cabinet and Ministers – gov.scot (www.gov.scot) Individuals who are newly appointed to Cabinet will be Cabinet Secretaries-designate until their appointment is formally agreed to by Parliament and approved by His Majesty King Charles III. Article Source: https://www.gov.scot/news/new-cabinet-unveiled/ The new Scottish Cabinet has been selected by the First Minister. Find out more at https://t.co/RsG35TvCh8 pic.twitter.com/2nG9FDMmSW — Scottish Government (@scotgov) March 29, 2023 Cabinet of 10 will be supported by 18 Junior Ministers. First Minister Humza Yousaf has completed the appointment of his ministerial team. Consisting of 10 Cabinet Secretaries, including the First Minister, the Scottish Cabinet will be supported by 18 Junior Ministers. First Minister Humza Yousaf Minister for Drugs and Alcohol Policy Elena Whitham Minister for Independence Jamie Hepburn Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Finance Shona Robison Minister for Community Wealth and Public Finance Tom Arthur Minister for Local Government Empowerment and Planning Joe FitzPatrick Minister for Parliamentary Business George Adam Cabinet Secretary for NHS Recovery, Health and Social Care Michael Matheson Minister for Public Health and Women’s Health Jenni Minto Minister for Social Care, Mental Wellbeing and Sport Maree Todd Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills Jenny Gilruth Minister for Children, Young People and Keeping the Promise Natalie Don Minister for Higher and Further Education; and Minister for Veterans Graeme Dey Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Just Transition Màiri McAllan Minister for Transport Kevin Stewart Minister for Zero Carbon Buildings, Active Travel and Tenants’ Rights (who will also work alongside the Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice) Patrick Harvie Cabinet Secretary for Wellbeing Economy, Fair Work and Energy Neil Gray Minister for Small Business, Innovation and Trade Richard Lochhead Minister for Energy Gillian Martin Minister for Green Skills, Circular Economy and Biodiversity (who will also work alongside the Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Just Transition) Lorna Slater Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands Mairi Gougeon Cabinet Secretary for Constitution, External Affairs and Culture Angus Robertson Minister for Culture, Europe and International Development Christina McKelvie Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice Shirley-Anne Somerville Minister for Equalities, Migration and Refugees Emma Roddick Minister for Housing Paul McLennan Cabinet Secretary for Justice and Home Affairs Angela Constance Minister for Victims and Community Safety Siobhian Brown USEFUL LINKS: SCOT GOV WEBSITE: https://www.gov.scot SCOT GOV FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/TheScottishGovernment/ SCOT GOV TWITTER: https://twitter.com/ScotGov SCOT GOV INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/scotgov/ SCOT GOV YOUR TUBE: https://www.youtube.com/user/scottishgovernment SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT WEBSITE: https://www.parliament.scot/ SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/scottishparliament SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT TWITTER: https://twitter.com/scotparl SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/scotparl/ SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT YOU TUBE: https://www.youtube.com/user/ScottishParl
Can I thank the National Secretary for overseeing the ballot and our team at Headquarters for their efforts throughout this process. It is hard to find the words to describe just how honoured I am to be entrusted by the membership of the SNP to be our Party’s next leader, and to be on the cusp of being our country’s next First Minister. Can I begin by paying tribute to my colleagues, Kate and Ash. During almost 20 hustings it probably felt like we saw more of each other than we did our respective partners. You both have put in an incredible shift, and I know you will continue to work hard as part of Team SNP. I am not just humbled, of that I most certainly am, I also feel like the luckiest man in the world to be standing here as Leader of the SNP, a party I joined almost 20 years ago and that I love so dearly. Friends, the late John Smith got it absolutely right when he said, “The opportunity to serve our country, is all we ask”. To serve my country as First Minister will be the greatest privilege and honour of my life, should Parliament decide to elect me as Scotland’s next First Minister tomorrow. And just as I will lead the SNP in the interests of all party members, not just those who voted for me, so I will lead Scotland in the interests of all our citizens whatever your political allegiance. If elected as your First Minister after tomorrow’s vote in Parliament, know that I will be a First Minister for all of Scotland, that I will work every minute of every day to earn and re-earn your respect and your trust. I will do that by treating you, the people of Scotland with respect. There will be no empty promises, no easy soundbites when the issues in front of us are difficult and complex, because government is not easy and I won’t pretend it is. My immediate priority will be to continue to protect every Scot as far as we can from the harm inflicted by the cost of living crisis, to recover and reform our NHS and other vital public services, to support our wellbeing economy and to improve the life chances of people across our country. I will move quickly to develop plans to extend childcare, improve rural housing, support small business, and boost innovation. I will bring forward reforms of the criminal justice system and work with local government to empower our local authorities. And as First Minister I will not shy away from the tough challenges, those that require the difficult decisions, but where there is that challenge, I will use it to find opportunity. My government will seize the economic and social opportunities of the journey to Net Zero, a country as energy rich as Scotland should not have people living in fuel poverty. The Government I lead will renew and redouble our efforts to lift people out of poverty, to make work fair and make our economy work for people, and to ensure as we become a more prosperous country we also become a fairer country. And while I have had my fair share of battles with the UK Government over the years, and there may well be some more to come. I will work with them, and with other devolved nations constructively where I can in the best interests of our nation. I am a proud Scot, and equally a proud European too, and Scotland is a European nation. We want to return to the European Union and play our part in building a continent based on human rights, peace, prosperity and social justice To the people of Scotland, the SNP has earned your trust by governing well, by ensuring that our priorities are your priorities. As a Party, and a Government, we are at our best when we are radical and bold and the challenges we face today require nothing less of us. That is what I promise the people of Scotland if Parliament puts its trust in me tomorrow. “We will be the generation that delivers independence for Scotland.”Newly-elected SNP leader Humza Yousaf says "the people of Scotland need independence now more than ever before" – after winning the party's leadership contest to succeed Nicola Sturgeon. pic.twitter.com/sqH94HSB9I— Channel 4 News (@Channel4News) March 27, 2023 Joining the SNP, for me, was an act of hope and also statement of intent. I was determined then, as I am now, as the 14th leader of this great party, that we will deliver independence for Scotland – together as a team. Leadership elections by their nature can be bruising, however, in the SNP we are a family. Over the last five weeks we may have been competitors or supporters of different candidates, but from today – we are no longer team Humza, Ash or Kate, we are one team, and we will be the team, we will be the generation that delivers independence for Scotland. Where there are divisions to heal we must do so and do so quickly because we have a job to do and as a Party we are at our strongest when we are united, and what unites is our shared goal of delivering independence for our nation. BREAKING: Humza Yousaf has won the SNP leadership contest and is set to be named as Scotland's new first minister, replacing Nicola Sturgeon.Read more: https://t.co/pZCNMJ5MWb📺 Sky 501, Virgin 602, Freeview 233 and YouTube pic.twitter.com/zQE0e4o7oY— Sky News (@SkyNews) March 27, 2023 To those in Scotland who don’t yet share the passion I do for independence, I will aim to earn your trust by continuing to govern well, and earn your respect as First Minister by focussing on the priorities that matter to us all, and in doing so using our devolved powers to absolute maximum effect to tackle the challenges of the day. For those of us who do believe in independence, we …
This is a news article from The Scottish Governement Website released on 15th December 2022 Strengthening the social contract with Scotland’s people. This year’s #ScotBudget aims to deliver on the priorities that matter most to the people of Scotland.Watch Deputy First Minister @JohnSwinney explain our priorities for the coming year ⬇️Find out more at https://t.co/Xf769rTz4L pic.twitter.com/caZnKem9Ip— Scottish Government (@scotgov) December 16, 2022 Deputy First Minister John Swinney laid out “a different, more progressive path for Scotland” as he presented the Scottish Budget 2023-24. He promised to strengthen the social contract with the people of Scotland and pledged to do everything possible to shield families from the welfare cuts and austerity policies of the UK Government. Supporting sustainable public services through the cost of living crisis is a priority – including more than £13.7 billion for NHS boards and £2 billion to establish and improve primary healthcare services in communities, as well as £1.7 billion for social care and integration, paving the way for the National Care Service. This record investment goes well beyond any previous commitment to pass on all consequentials to health and social care, and delivers a £1 billion uplift to the health budget. Having already increased the unique Scottish Child Payment to £25 per week as part of a drive to eradicate child poverty, the Budget invests £428 million to uprate all other devolved benefits in April 2023 by September’s Consumer Price Index inflation level of 10.1%. It commits £20 million to extend the Fuel Insecurity Fund to provide a lifeline for households, including the most vulnerable, against rising energy prices. This year’s budget aims to deliver on the priorities which matter most to the people of Scotland.Watch below to learn about our key aims for the coming year ⬇️Find out more at https://t.co/Xf769rTz4L pic.twitter.com/tSllLZ2lPA— Scottish Government (@scotgov) December 16, 2022 Scotland’s transition to net zero is boosted with increased investment to over £366 million in delivering the Heat in Buildings Strategy in 2023-24. This will help tackle fuel poverty as part of a £1.8 billion commitment over this Parliament to improve energy efficiency and decarbonise more than a million Scottish homes by 2030. The Budget commits £50 million to the Just Transition Fund for the North East and Moray – more than double the 2022-23 allocation – to diversify the regional economy away from carbon-intensive industries and capitalise on the opportunities presented by new, green industries. Strengthened by the agreement between the Scottish Government and the Scottish Green Party, the 2023-24 Scottish Budget also includes: around £1 billion investment in high quality early learning and childcare provision, with a further £22 million invested in holiday food provision and expanding support for school-age childcare £50 million for the Whole Family Wellbeing programme for preventative co-ordinated family support and a further £30 million to keep The Promise to care experienced children and young people £80 million capital funding to support the expansion of free school meals going beyond existing commitments with more than £550 million additional funding to Local Government £165 million additional funding for frontline justice services and to continue with transformational reforms a £46 million increase in resource funding to universities and colleges to ensure a highly qualified and highly skilled workforce for Scotland Mr Swinney said: “The Scottish Government, like governments all over the world, is faced with a difficult set of choices. Through this Budget we are facing up to our responsibilities while being honest with the people of Scotland about the challenges which lie ahead. “To govern is to choose and the Scottish Government has made its choice. “Within the powers available to us, we will choose a different path. A path which sees the Scottish Government commit substantial resources to protect the most vulnerable people of Scotland from the impact of decisions and policies made by the UK Government. We choose to stand firmly behind the Scottish people, investing in our public services and doing everything possible to ensure that no one is left behind. “This Budget strengthens the social contract between the Scottish Government and every citizen of Scotland for the wider benefit of society. This social contract means that people in Scotland continue to enjoy many benefits not available throughout the UK – including free prescriptions, free access to higher education and the Scottish Child Payment. “Because we know this progressive model works, we choose the path where people are asked to pay their fair share, in the knowledge that in so doing they help to create the fairer society in which we all want to live.” VIEW MORE ON SCOT GOVT WEBSITE https://www.gov.scot/budget/
‘Ambitious plans for a more dynamic and fairer economy’ Proposals to build a dynamic and socially just economy will be at the centre of government plans for a newly independent Scotland, according to First Minister Nicola Sturgeon. Speaking ahead of the launch of a new prospectus paper detailing plans for the economy of an independent Scotland, the First Minister said independence would help Scotland become a fairer, wealthier and greener country. Building on the evidence published in the first of the Building a New Scotland series, Independence in the modern world, the latest paper will set out how the powers of independence, combined with Scotland’s abundant economic strengths and resources, can deliver a stronger economy and fairer society. The paper is also expected to propose a Building a New Scotland Fund. With infrastructure investment of up to £20 billion from remaining oil revenues and responsible borrowing, the new Fund will accelerate the transition to net zero, build resilient communities, and help kick-start the sustainable economic growth so important for the newly independent nation. The paper will also address the issues of currency, fiscal sustainability, and trade. First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “Scotland has an abundance of skilled people, innovative businesses, and natural resources. We have everything it takes to be just as successful as comparable independent European countries. Our analysis from the first paper in the Building a New Scotland series shows that a dynamic economy and social justice go hand in hand. Each makes the other stronger. “Scotland’s economy is one of the best performing in the UK – however the UK economy, particularly post-Brexit, is now lagging behind many EU and international comparators. The UK economic model is demonstrably failing and increasingly holding Scotland back. Independence is now essential to build an economy that works for everyone. The paper we are publishing today will help people make a clear, informed choice about independence and how we can forge a path towards becoming a fairer, greener, wealthier country.” Above Info reproduced via: https://www.gov.scot/news/ambitious-plans-for-a-more-dynamic-and-fairer-economy-1/ The Scottish Government is proposing that an independence referendum is held on 19 October 2023. It is vital that the people of Scotland have the information they need to make an informed choice about Scotland’s future before a referendum takes place. A series of papers, titled ‘Building a New Scotland’, together form a prospectus for an independent Scotland. SOURCE LINKS: https://www.gov.scot/newscotland/
‘Scotland has got what it takes to be a successful independent country.’ It is so good to be speaking at Conference in person again, rather than virtually. Getting to hug friends and colleagues is so much better. Our political family – Scotland’s biggest party by far – is together again. And that feels great. The only downside of not being on zoom is having to trade my slippers for these heels. But I suppose I can’t have everything. Of course, it is always good to be here in Aberdeen. Especially now that the SNP is once again leading this great city. Aberdeen and the North East is at the heart of our just transition to a net zero future. Since our late Queen – whose extraordinary life of service we have honoured in recent weeks – switched on the Forties pipeline in 1975, oil and gas has powered the Scottish economy. Her late Majesty, back then, inaugurated the oil and gas age. As we move now – in so many ways – into a new era, we have a duty to repay all those who work in that industry. A duty to support them into new jobs in green energy. An opportunity to usher in the new age of Scottish renewables. Conference, Aberdeen is the oil and gas capital of Europe. Let us resolve today to make it the net zero capital of the world. That ambition led us to establish the £500 million Just Transition Fund for this region. Today I can announce the first 22 projects have just been awarded funding of more than £50 million. These projects will support the production of green hydrogen; The development of wave and tidal technology. And even pioneer the use of waste from whisky to recycle EV batteries; They will focus on the skills our existing workforce need to take advantage of the renewables revolution. Incredible Scottish ingenuity here in the North-East, supported by the Scottish Government, developing technologies to tackle the global climate emergency. It is exciting, inspiring stuff. And it is a shining example of what a Scottish Government can do when the powers lie in our hands. Conference, When we last gathered together – just weeks from the start of a global pandemic – we could not have imagined what lay ahead. Thankfully, Covid no longer dominates the news, or our thoughts, quite as much as it did. But the virus still poses a risk – especially as we approach winter. So, before I go any further today, a plea: If you are eligible, get your booster jag. Vaccination is just as important now as it was last winter. If you don’t do it for yourself – though you should – do it for those more vulnerable than you. And, please, do it for the National Health Service. We owe the NHS – and all who work in it – a massive debt of gratitude. Conference, All of us hoped that when the worst of the pandemic was over, better times would lie ahead. Thanks to the brilliance of vaccine scientists, and the sheer strength of the human spirit, I am certain those better days will come. But in the midst of a cost of living crisis, it won’t surprise you to hear me talk today about the challenges we face: And about the massive responsibility of me, and my government, to help you through it. As we navigate these stormy waters, Scotland needs a steady and compassionate hand on the tiller. Conference, That is what our Scottish Government provides. But today I will also make the case for optimism. For not just accepting the world as it is. But turning our minds and our hearts instead to building a stronger Scotland and playing our part in building a better, fairer world. The optimism that a better world is possible is inspired, for me, by the bravery of those who endure the toughest of times. And at home by the knowledge that this beautiful, magnificent country of ours is bursting with talent, creativity and ingenuity… We also have a sense of solidarity and common purpose that our political debate can sometimes obscure. Conference, Scotland has got what it takes to be a successful independent country. It has it in abundance. Never let anyone tell us otherwise. At this moment, across the world that better future can be hard to see – eclipsed, as it is, by significant and profound challenges. A war of unprovoked aggression on our continent. An energy price crisis and soaring inflation. Democratic norms eroded and human rights attacked in too many countries. In the face of that, we have a duty to champion progressive values and universal rights. Friends, That is a duty our party will always discharge. But in the UK we have a Westminster Government intent on taking us down a different path. The current Home Secretary, speaking at the Conservative Party conference, said this about asylum seekers – And even as I quote her, I struggle to comprehend that she actually said these words. But here they are: “I would love to be having a front page of The Telegraph with a plane taking off to Rwanda, that’s my dream, it’s my obsession.” Conference, My dream is very different. I am sure it is shared in this hall and by the vast majority across Scotland. My dream is that we live in a world where those fleeing violence and oppression are shown compassion and treated like human beings… Not shown the door and bundled on to planes like unwanted cargo. Conference, Our case for hope and optimism rests – above all – on our common humanity. Compassion. Solidarity. Love. These values sustained us in the darkest days of the pandemic. They must drive us forward now. Those fighting across the globe for democracy, equality and human dignity must hear that they are not alone. So let the message go out from us to everyone across the world standing up against …
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has now published the Referendum Bill and set the Scottish independence referendum date for 19 October 2023. (Article Below from yes.scot) Source: https://www.yes.scot/the-worlds-eyes-are-on-scotland/ After pro-independence parties won a record result in the 2021 election, there is a clear mandate for an independence referendum. Watch our video below setting out the facts. 1️⃣ Scottish Tory leader: “a vote for the SNP is a vote for another independence referendum”2️⃣ Scotland votes for #indyref2.3️⃣ Another independence referendum.🏴 Scotland will have a choice. Pledge your support at https://t.co/bkLETLnJTB. pic.twitter.com/iorBoMRpvk— Yes (@YesScot) June 28, 2022 As Scotland readies itself to choose its own future, media from across Europe and the world have their eyes on Scotland. It’s increasingly clear that the world recognises Scotland’s clear mandate for a referendum – and we’ve pulled together a selection of international coverage here. 🇫🇷 France France’s biggest newspaper Le Monde has published this article – you can read it here, in French or in English. 🇦🇹 Austria Austrian broadsheet newspaper Die Presse says “Boris Johnson’s Conservative British government tore Scotland out of the Commonwealth against its will and led the rest of Britain into a deep crisis”. Read the article here. 🇩🇪 Germany Germany’s English-language news service Deutsche Welle also published an article about the October 2023 referendum. Read it here. 🇮🇹 Italy Italian public broadcaster RAI News also covered the announcement, and talked about how Scotland being dragged out of the EU justifies a fresh independence referendum. Read the article. 🇪🇸 Spain Spain’s major broadsheet newspaper El Pais also covered Nicola Sturgeon’s referendum date announcement, and reported the “landslide victory” in the 2021 Scottish election. Click here to read the article. 🇦🇺 Australia Australia’s public broadcaster ABC News has also reported on the referendum announcement and stressed “there is a majority for a new independence vote”. Read the article here. 🇺🇸 United States of America One of the USA’s biggest and oldest newspapers, The Washington Post, reports that “much has changed in recent years, including Britain’s departure from the European Union. The majority of Scots voted to stay in the bloc.” Read the article.
Nicola Sturgeon’s full statement announcing the 2023 independence referendum First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has now announced the path to Scotland’s independence referendum, set the date to 19 October 2023, and published the Scottish Independence Referendum Bill. Read her full statement below, delivered in the Scottish Parliament on 28 June 2022. Presiding Officer, The campaign to establish this Parliament was long and hard. It was rooted in the belief that self-government would improve the lives of those who live here. And so it has proved. There were – and still are – honourable differences about the ultimate destination of Scotland’s self-government journey. But all who campaigned to establish this place were united in and by this fundamental principle: The democratic rights of the people of Scotland are paramount. That principle of self-determination was encapsulated by these words in the Scottish Constitutional Convention’s Claim of Right: “The sovereign right of the Scottish people to determine the form of government best suited to their needs.” When the late Canon Kenyon Wright – who led the Convention – addressed Westminster’s refusal to accept the democratic demand for a Scottish Parliament with this question: “What if that other voice we all know so well responds by saying, ‘We say no, and we are the state’?” His answer – “Well we say yes – and we are the people” – was simple but powerful. It is as relevant now as it was then. Last May, the people of Scotland said Yes to an independence referendum by electing a clear majority of MSPs committed to that outcome. The democratic decision was clear. Two weeks ago, the Scottish Government started the process of implementing that decision with the first in the Building a New Scotland series of papers. That paper presented compelling evidence of the stronger economic and social performance, relative to the UK, of a range of independent countries across Europe that are comparable to Scotland. That should be both a lesson and an inspiration to us. Scotland – over generations – has paid a price for not being independent. Westminster governments we don’t vote for, imposing policies we don’t support, too often holding us back from fulfilling our potential. That reality has rarely been starker than it is now. The Conservatives have just six MPs in Scotland – barely 10 per cent of Scottish representation – and yet they have ripped us out of the EU against our will. They have created the worst cost of living crisis in the G7, and saddled us with the second lowest growth in the G20. They are intent on stoking industrial strife, demonising workers and provoking a trade war. Businesses and public services are struggling for staff because freedom of movement has been ended. Our young people have been robbed of opportunity. Presiding Officer, the Scottish Government will do everything in our power to mitigate the damage. But that is not enough. Our country deserves better. And yet this Parliament, looked to for leadership by so many across Scotland, does not have the power to tackle the root causes of the financial misery being inflicted on millions. We lack the full range of levers to shape our economy and grow the country’s wealth. We are powerless to stop our budget being cut. We can’t block the Tories’ new anti-trade union laws, or stop them tearing up human rights protections. We’re not able to restore freedom of movement. And while we invest billions in measures to help with the cost of living, tens of thousands of children can be pushed deeper into poverty at the merest stroke of the Chancellor’s pen. Presiding Officer, it does not have to be this way. Independence is about equipping ourselves to navigate the future, guided by our own values, aspirations and interests. It is about helping us fulfil our potential here at home and play our part in building a better world. And that takes more than a changing of the guard at Westminster. I fervently hope that the Tories lose the next election. They thoroughly deserve to. But on the big policy issues of our time, from Europe to migration, to human rights and fairness for workers, Labour is more a pale imitation than a genuine alternative. Labour won’t take Scotland back into the EU or even the single market. And neither will the Liberal Democrats. They won’t restore freedom of movement for our young people. They won’t prioritise tackling child poverty over investment in nuclear weapons. Presiding Officer, independence won’t always be easy. It isn’t for any country. But it will give us the opportunity to chart our own course. To build a wealthier, greener, fairer nation. To be outward looking and internationalist. To lift our eyes and learn from the best. Presiding Officer, now is the time – at this critical moment in history – to debate and decide the future of our country. Now is the time to get Scotland on the right path – the path chosen by those who live here. Now is the time for independence. This parliament has a clear, democratic mandate to offer Scotland that choice. The UK government, however, is refusing to respect Scottish democracy. That is why today’s statement is necessary. The UK and Scottish governments should be sitting down together, responsibly agreeing a process, including a section 30 order, that allows the Scottish people to decide. That would be the democratic way to proceed. It would be based on precedent. And it would put the legal basis of a referendum beyond any doubt. That’s why I am writing to the Prime Minister today to inform him of the content of this statement. In that letter I will also make clear that I am ready and willing to negotiate the terms of a section 30 order with him. What I am not willing to do – what I will never do – is allow Scottish democracy to be a prisoner of Boris Johnson or any Prime Minister. The issue of independence cannot …
Today, we publish the first in a series of papers – “Building a New Scotland” – that will make afresh the case for Scotland becoming an independent country. An independent country better able to chart our own course here at home and – as the outward looking nation we have always been – play our part in building a stronger, safer, better world. Today, Scotland – like countries across the world – faces significant challenges. But we also have huge advantages and immense potential. The refreshed case for independence is about how we equip ourselves to navigate the challenges and fulfil that potential, now and in future. In their day to day lives, people across Scotland are suffering the impacts of the soaring cost of living, low growth and increasing inequality, constrained public finances and the many implications of a Brexit we did not vote for. These problems have all been made worse or, most obviously in the case of Brexit, directly caused by the fact we are not independent. So at this critical juncture we face a fundamental question. Do we stay tied to a UK economic model that consigns us to relatively poor economic and social outcomes which are likely to get worse, not better, outside the EU? Or do we lift our eyes, with hope and optimism, and take inspiration from comparable countries across Europe? Comparable neighbouring countries with different characteristics. Countries that, in many cases, lack the abundance of resources that Scotland is blessed with. But all of them independent and, as we show today, wealthier and fairer than the UK 🔷️🏴🔷️ Watch live: 'Building a new Scotland.'First Minister @NicolaSturgeon holds a press conference from Bute House, Edinburgh. Via @scotgov#ANewScotland https://t.co/N4IA74N2op— ScottishPoliticsNews 🏴 (@ScoPoliticsNews) June 14, 2022 Today’s paper – and those that will follow in the weeks and months ahead – is about substance. That is what really matters. The strength of the substantive case will determine the decision people reach when the choice is offered – as it will be – and it is time now to set out and debate that case. After everything that has happened – Brexit, Covid, Boris Johnson – it is time to set out a different and better vision. It is time to talk about making Scotland wealthier and fairer. It is time to talk about independence – and then to make the choice. How we secure that choice – as we are committed to doing – is of course a highly pertinent question, so while today is very much about substance, let me address briefly the issue of process. I was re-elected as First Minister just over one year ago on a clear commitment to give the people of Scotland the choice of becoming an independent country. And the people of Scotland elected a Scottish Parliament with a decisive majority in favour of both independence and the right to choose. The Scottish Parliament therefore has an indisputable democratic mandate, and we intend to honour it. A referendum though, if it is to be deliverable, command confidence and achieve its objective, must be lawful. It is the parties opposed to independence who would benefit from doubt about a referendum’s legality. These parties don’t want to engage on the substance of this debate, because they know how increasingly threadbare their arguments are. So they prefer to cast doubt on the process. Those of us who relish the opportunity to make and win the substantive case for independence mustn’t let them do so. Of course, if this UK government had any respect at all for democracy, the issue of legality would be put beyond doubt, as in 2014, through a section 30 order. I make clear to the Prime Minister again today that I stand ready to discuss the terms of such an order at any time. But my duty, as the democratically elected First Minister, is to the people of Scotland – not to Boris Johnson or any Tory Prime Minister. 📢 Independent countries across Europe are wealthier and fairer than the UK, so #WhyNotScotland?🏴 It is now time to set out and debate the substantive case for Scottish independence.✏️ Show your support at https://t.co/bkLETLnJTB pic.twitter.com/k6k9hLwpY0— Yes (@YesScot) June 14, 2022 This is a UK government that has no respect for democracy. And, as we saw again yesterday, it has no regard for the rule of law either. That means – if we are to uphold democracy here in Scotland – we must forge a way forward, if necessary, without a section 30 order. For the reasons I have set out, however, we must do so in a lawful manner. We know that in these circumstances the competence of the Scottish Parliament to legislate is contested. That is the situation we must navigate to give people the choice of independence. That work is underway and while I do not intend to go further into the detail today, I can say that I hope to give a significant update to Parliament very soon. The principles of democracy and the rule of law are fundamental. They should unite all of us, regardless of our politics. Indeed, democracy within the rule of law is how differences of political or constitutional opinion should always be resolved. The fact that these principles are now so deeply disrespected and disregarded, day and daily in the UK, is itself an indication of how broken Westminster governance is. It has become part of the argument for independence – and it is to that substantive case that I now return. The choice people arrive at on independence must be an informed one. The case we make must speak, not just to those who already support independence, but also – indeed even more so – to those not yet persuaded. It is an obvious point but one that always bears repetition – Scotland will only become independent when a majority of those who live here vote for it. It is in that spirit that we publish this first …
Targeted funding to help mitigate the impact of Omicron. First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has announced how £107 million is being allocated to support businesses impacted by the spread of the Omicron variant.
“For countries of Scotland’s size, independence works” First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon tells the SNP conference that “democracy must, and democracy will prevail” as she confirms the timetable towards a new Independence Referendum. STV NEWS REPORT ‘Nicola Sturgeon will ask the UK Government to agree to another Scottish independence referendum “in the spirit of co-operation”. Scotland’s First Minister will tell SNP members that “democracy must – and will – prevail” to allow another vote on Scottish independence. Sturgeon, who is due to deliver the closing speech of the SNP conference shortly before midday, is expected to say that she hopes to adopt an approach of “co-operation not confrontation” in her attempts to secure a second referendum. The SNP leader has called for another referendum by the end of 2023 when the coronavirus pandemic is over, although the UK Government remains opposed to another vote.’ Read More: https://news.stv.tv/scotland/nicola-sturgeon-hopes-the-uk-government-will-co-operate-for-indyref2?top "For countries of Scotland’s size, independence works"First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon tells the SNP conference that "democracy must, and democracy will prevail" as she confirms the timetable towards a new Independence Referendum.pic.twitter.com/PYpJo3d8Vz— ScottishPoliticsNews 🏴 (@ScoPoliticsNews) September 13, 2021 Nicola Sturgeon’s address to #SNP21 Conference 13/09/21 “This is the first gathering of the SNP since our election victory in May. So let me begin with a big, heartfelt thank you. Firstly, and most importantly, to the people of Scotland – thank you for again putting your trust in me as First Minister and in the SNP as your Government. As I say often, we don’t – and won’t – get everything right. But I give this guarantee. We will work as hard as we can to make your lives better and retain your trust. And thank you to SNP members across the country. You did so much to secure victory in what was an election like no other. You are the heartbeat of our party. You know, in recent months, I’ve attended far too many funerals of much loved party stalwarts. We miss them all. Most recently the SNP family bid farewell to our dear friend, and sheer force of nature, Calum Cashley – taken from us far too soon. Calum wasn’t a household name. He wasn’t an MSP or MP or councillor. But his tireless, energetic contribution to the cause of independence was immense. His brother said of him: “My brother was a man driven to see Scotland become all it could be. “It wasn’t just an independent Scotland he longed for, it was a better Scotland.” Calum, like all of you, worked day in, day out to bring about that better country. Let us take inspiration from his life and resolve that everything we do will be dedicated to making Scotland all it can be. And that word “all” is important. It is about everyone in Scotland. It is about those born here, and those who honour us by making this country their home. The Scottish election was the first time refugees and all foreign nationals with leave to remain had the right to vote. That was important for its own sake. But it is also a symbol of the country we are seeking to build. Open, welcoming, diverse. Refugees from Syria and elsewhere have settled in Alloa, on Bute, in Glasgow, in the Highlands, and many places in between. They are a part of who we are. They enrich our society in so many ways. We should take pride from the fact that people who came here to escape persecution and war could, often for the first time in their lives, exercise what should be a universal democratic right. One of the lessons that humanity seems destined to have to relearn time and again is that the rights we enjoy today can never be taken for granted. That feels especially true just now. But sadly for many people across the world – especially women and girls – these rights are still a distant aspiration. Not just the right to vote, but the right to go to school, to freedom of expression, to be treated equally. In recent weeks, we’ve heard heart-breaking stories from Afghanistan. And we have witnessed scenes of extraordinary bravery. People risking all in desperate attempts to save their children. Women demonstrating in defence of the most basic rights – in the face of a truly barbaric regime We can only imagine the courage that takes. In Scotland, we are committed to welcoming and supporting those fleeing the Taliban. The UK has a heavy responsibility, particularly to those who supported British interests over the past 20 years and now face mortal peril. They must not be abandoned. There must be a credible plan to bring each and every one to safety and security. And we also have a continued moral and humanitarian obligation to provide hope and support to those who remain, particularly those striving to preserve the progress of the last two decades. The Afghan crisis has also shone a spotlight on the UK Government’s wider asylum policy. I know that speaking out about this issue is not always popular. But offering asylum to those in dire need is an expression of our common humanity. The UK Government’s Nationality and Borders Bill fails that basic test of humanity. It could criminalise those seeking sanctuary from oppression simply for claiming asylum. The UN refugee agency says the bill would violate the 1951 Refugee Convention. These proposals are a stain on this Westminster government. They run counter to the kind of country we are seeking to build. And I look forward to the day when our asylum and migration policy is decided here in Scotland, not by a government in Westminster that sees it as an opportunity to show how tough it is, rather than how much it cares. Friends, In May, the people of Scotland placed their trust in us again: in our values, our beliefs, in our welcoming vision of Scotland and in the practical actions we are taking to improve lives. Their verdict was …
This is the results page for the Scottish Parliament Elections held on the 6th of May 2021. The SNP will form the next Scottish Government – a historic fourth consecutive win for the party. Pro Independence parties also carried a majority of seats with the SNP and Greens winning 72 of the 129 seats in the parliament.
All 32 local authorities across Scotland have chosen to freeze council tax following a Scottish Government commitment to compensate those who do so. Finance Secretary Kate Forbes said: “With people facing unprecedented challenges and extra pressures, now is a time to work together to provide stability and certainty.
In the latest Scottish Elections Poll (released via The Scotsman and Savanta ComRes) predictions for the Scottish Parliament results in May show Independence supporting parties achieving a 19 seat majority at Holyrood.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has officially launched the Scottish National Investment Bank. It will be backed by £2bn of Scottish Government funding over the next decade Scot Gov: “It will help to tackle some of the biggest challenges Scotland faces now and in years to come, delivering economic, social and environmental returns.”
The Scottish Government have introduced new regulations via The Scottish Parliament on smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in all homes. Legislation due to come into effect will mean that the standards which currently apply to private rented property and new-builds will also eventually be extended to all homes in Scotland.
Statement on EU and UK Government talks by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon Commenting on the EU and UK Government talks, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: It is beyond belief that in the midst of a global pandemic and deep recession the Prime Minister is telling Scotland to get ready for a disastrous No Deal Brexit.
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In the early stages of the COVID-19 crisis, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier said: “This pandemic is not a war. Nations are not against other nations, soldiers against other soldiers. It is a test of our humanity.” These have been indeed the most testing of times for people in Europe and across the world.
‘Internal Market Bill should be abandoned’ Parliament rejects consent for “deeply damaging” Bill. The Internal Market Bill should be withdrawn by the UK Government after consent for it was denied by a majority of the Scottish Parliament, Constitution Secretary Michael Russell has said.
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Below is Nicola Sturgeon’s full statement to the Scottish Parliament on Wednesday, October 7th, regarding the implementation of additional COVID restrictions in Scotland.
First Minister media address to Scotland on 22 September 2020 on new measures to combat the spread of the coronavirus pandemic in Scotland. This speech is from the Gov.scot website and was broadcast live on tv and online in Scotland.
Below is Nicola Sturgeon’s full statement to the Scottish Parliament on the implementation of additional COVID restrictions in Scotland.
Spending proposals would “reverse devolution”. (17 Sept 2020) Finance Ministers from Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have met to discuss a range of fiscal matters and voiced their collective concerns about the financial implications the UK Internal Market Bill will have on devolved governments.
The Scottish Government has said it is impossible to recommend the Scottish Parliament gives consent to the UK Government’s Internal Market bill. (8 Sept 2020) The bill, which will be published by the UK Government tomorrow, engages the Sewel Convention, and therefore the UK’s constitutional rules require the consent of Holyrood.
Article by First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon on yes.scot (6 Sept 2020) Independence is the normal form of governance for most nations in the world. Most of them take it, and the ability it affords them to take decisions in their own national interest, for granted. Being independent does not magically solve every problem a country faces, but it does allow the opportunity to deal with those problems in a way best suited to your needs. That is the essence of self-government – but Scotland does not yet have the ability to exercise those independent choices.
First Minister NicolaSturgeon: “As of 9am this morning, there have been 8,672 positive cases confirmed, an increase of 222 since yesterday. While I would still urge caution in interpreting these figures, I remain cautiously optimistic that, while the numbers being admitted to hospital are still fluctuating, they appear to be broadly stable. Secondly, the number being admitted to intensive care are reducing.”
Writer Article by Kat Cary 09/04/20: U.S. Politics 2020 Presedential Election I knew that this was coming, but the timing seemed off. About an hour before the campaign livestream, news broke that Senator Bernie Sanders was suspending his bid for the Democrat nomination. As I listened to the broadcast – tuning out from time-to-time as Bernie went through his greatest hits – something grabbed my attention. If you were to guess who he would quote, who would it be? If you are like me and thought it would be Dr Martin Luther King, Jr., give yourself a half-point because he quoted two individuals. The senator from Vermont reserved his initial quote for Nelson Mandela, and the words hit me like a punch in the gut, “It always seems impossible until it is done.”
April the 6th 2020 marks the 700th Anniversary of The Declaration of Arbroath and the claim of right of an Independent and sovereign Scotland. ANNIVERSARY FILM (Charlie Stuart / Lesley Riddoch) Documentary celebrating the Declaration of Arbroath on the 700th anniversary 6th April 2020
NHS Louisa Jordan The new NHS Scotland medical facility being created at the Scottish Events Campus (SEC) in Glasgow is the NHS Louisa Jordan.