First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has nominated nine new ministers for appointment to the Scottish Government. “In a wide-ranging refresh of her ministerial team, the First Minister is bringing frontline experience in a number of key areas,” the Government said in a statement.
Kate Forbes is to become Minister for Public Finance and Digital Economy, working with the Finance Secretary on managing the Scottish Government budget and on tax policy.
Ivan McKee will take on the role of Minister for Trade, Investment and Innovation, “building on Scotland’s strong track record of attracting inward investment in recent years and working to boost exports”.
These ministerial nominations follow the announcement yesterday of a new Scottish Government Cabinet.
“The new ministers I am announcing today bring a range of fresh talent to the Scottish Government, ensuring that we are equipped to deal with the challenges and maximise the opportunities facing the people of Scotland,” said the First Minister.
“The ministerial team represents constituencies the length and breadth of Scotland, coming with a range of professional backgrounds and bringing a breadth of real life experience to their roles.
“For instance, Claire Haughey brings her extensive background as a mental health nurse to the mental health portfolio, Kate Forbes will bring her finance background to bear in her brief, Gillian Martin has long experience in further education as a college lecturer, and Ivan McKee brings the expertise he has acquired from a highly successful career in business to the role of Trade and Innovation Minister.
“All of the new ministers I have appointed today, have already proven themselves as effective parliamentarians – and I know that they will do likewise in Ministerial office.”