Mairi McAllan Scottish National Party (SNP)
Standing in Clydesdale · South Scotland region
SNP Cabinet Secretary and MSP for Clydesdale since 2021, McAllan is one of the youngest members of the Scottish Cabinet. A former corporate solicitor who also served as a special adviser to First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, she has held the environment, net zero, and transport portfolios since entering Parliament and was appointed Cabinet Secretary for Housing in 2025.
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
› Cabinet Secretary for Housing since 2025
› Previously Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy (2024-2025)
› Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Net Zero and Just Transition (2023-2024)
› Former corporate solicitor and special adviser to the First Minister
› First elected to the Scottish Parliament in 2021 at age 28