Mairi Gougeon is set to remain as Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands after Scotland’s new cabinet was unveiled today (Wednesday, March 29).
New First Minister Humza Yousaf, who was appointed yesterday (Tuesday, March 28), unveiled his cabinet team which has five members aged under 40-years-old and, for the first time ever, a majority of women.
Máiri McAllan will join the new cabinet for the first time as Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Just Transition after previously holding the role of the Minister for Environment, Biodiversity and Land Reform since May 2021.
Scottish parliament will be asked to approve the new ministerial appointments tomorrow (Thursday, March 30).
Speaking on the appointment of his cabinet, 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 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.”
In the cabinet of 10, which sees the economy established as a portfolio in its own right, is as follows:
- Shona Robison, the new deputy First Minister, will take on the finance portfolio, including responsibility for the Scottish budget;
- Michael Matheson becomes the Cabinet Secretary for National Health Service (NHS) Recovery, Health and Social Care;
- Jenny Gilruth joins cabinet for the first time as Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills;
- Màiri McAllan joins cabinet for the first time as Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Just Transition;
- Neil Gray joins cabinet for the first time as Cabinet Secretary for Well-being Economy, Fair Work and Energy;
- Mairi Gougeon remains Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands;
- Angus Robertson remains Cabinet Secretary for Constitution, External Affairs and Culture;
- Shirley-Anne Somerville becomes Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice;
- Angela Constance returns as the new Cabinet Secretary for Justice and Home Affairs.
“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,” Yousaf said.
“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.”
