Ben MacPherson Scottish National Party (SNP)
MSP for Edinburgh Northern and Leith since 2016. A former commercial lawyer, Macpherson has held a series of ministerial roles covering migration, public finance, rural affairs, and social security. He returned to government as Minister for Higher and Further Education in September 2025 after two years on the backbenches.
Policy Positions
Scotland's Future
Core commitment. Independence referendum if SNP wins a majority. Describes independence as essential to Scotland's future prosperity.
NHS & Health
Continue current NHS investment. Deliver the long-delayed National Care Service. Maintain mental health funding expansion.
Housing
Continue the rent control framework introduced in 2022. Invest in social housing. Maintain existing tenant protections.
Climate & Transport
Net zero by 2045. Just transition fund for oil and gas workers. Active travel investment. (2030 interim targets were dropped in 2024.)
Tax & Public Spending
Maintain progressive Scottish income tax, which currently raises around £1bn more than the rest-of-UK equivalent.
Economy & Jobs
Support a just transition from fossil fuels. Protect free university tuition. Invest in creative industries and Scottish exports.
Education & Childcare
Protect free university tuition. Maintain national curriculum standards. Focus on closing the attainment gap.
Social Issues
Supported the Gender Recognition Reform Bill (subsequently blocked by the UK Government). Progressive social policy across all groups.
Track Record
› Minister for Higher and Further Education (reappointed September 2025)
› MSP for Edinburgh Northern and Leith since 2016
› Former Minister for Europe, Migration and International Development (2018-2020)
› Former Minister for Social Security and Local Government (2021-2023)
› Former commercial lawyer; also worked in renewable energy