Yousaf announces cabinet

New Scottish First Minister Humza Yousaf has announced his new cabinet, with a majority of women for the first time ever.

The cabinet of ten contains five people under 40.

Deputy First Minister Shona Robison will take on the Finance portfolio including responsibility for the Scottish Budget.

Michael Matheson takes on the role of Cabinet Secretary for NHS Recovery, Health and Social Care.

Jenny Gilruth will take on her first cabinet role as cabinet secretary for education and skills.

Màiri McAllan also joins the Cabinet for the first time as cabinet secretary for net zero and just transition.

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.”

Image: Shona Robison by Scottish Government https://flic.kr/p/2kZBV86