John Ramsay Swinney Scottish National Party (SNP)
First Minister of Scotland since May 2024 and leader of the SNP. A veteran of Scottish politics, Swinney has been an MSP since 1999 and previously served as SNP leader (2000-2004), Deputy First Minister (2014-2023), and Cabinet Secretary for Finance. He is one of the longest-serving members of the Scottish Parliament.
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
› First Minister of Scotland since May 2024
› Previously served as Deputy First Minister (2014-2023)
› SNP leader twice — 2000-2004 and again from 2024
› Cabinet Secretary for Finance (2007-2016) and Education (2016-2023)
› MSP continuously since the Scottish Parliament's creation in 1999