Deputy First Minister of Scotland
The Deputy First Minister of Scotland is the second highest ranking minister of the Government of Scotland, behind the First Minister of Scotland. The post-holder is appointed by the First Minister, and deputises for the First Minister during a period of absence or whilst they are out-with Scotland undertaking overseas visits. During any period of the First Minister's absence, the DFM will be expected to answer to the Scottish Parliament on behalf of the First Minister at First Minister's Questions.
Deputy First Minister of Scotland
Image: Jim Wallace
Image: Nicol Stephen
Image: Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon MSP
First Minister of Scotland
The first minister of Scotland, formally the First Minister and Keeper of the Scottish Seal, is the head of the Scottish Government and the keeper of the Great Seal of Scotland. The first minister chairs the Scottish Cabinet and is primarily responsible for the formulation, development, and presentation of the Scottish Government's policies. Additional functions of the first minister include promoting and representing Scotland in an official capacity, at home and abroad.
First Minister of Scotland
First Minister John Swinney taking the oath of office at the Court of Session
Scotland's law officers – the Lord Advocate and Solicitor General for Scotland
The First Minister becomes a member of the Privy Council upon receiving the Royal Warrant from the monarch