John Ramsay Swinney Scottish National Party (SNP)
Standing in Perthshire North · Mid Scotland and Fife region
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
Support independence. An SNP majority at this election is framed as a mandate for a referendum. Independence cited as essential to Scotland's future prosperity.
NHS & Health
Significant NHS investment. Expand GP walk-in clinics, shorten waiting times, deliver more operations and community diagnostics. NHS described as Scotland's most precious public service.
Housing
Build 110,000 affordable homes by 2032 (70% social rent), create a new housing agency, retain the rent control framework, and provide deposit support of up to £10,000 for first-time buyers.
Climate & Transport
Continue the transition to net zero by 2045 with a focus on Scotland's renewable energy wealth. Interim 2030 climate targets were dropped in 2024; emphasis is on energy costs and a just transition.
Tax & Public Spending
Keep Scotland's progressive income tax, the fairest and most progressive in the UK. Introduce a mansion tax on properties valued above £1m from 2028.
Economy & Jobs
Grow the economy while protecting public services. Unlock £20 billion of pension fund investment, back a just transition, and use Scotland's renewable energy wealth to cut costs for households and businesses.
Education & Childcare
A transformational national expansion of childcare from 9 months to the end of primary school, 52 weeks a year. Protect free university tuition and free school lunches.
Social Issues
Uphold and protect the human rights of trans people within devolved powers. Scotland is the first country in the world to incorporate LGBTQI+ education in schools. Strong commitment to equality 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