has been appointed Deputy
First Minister by new First Minister .
She described it as a ‘moment of extraordinary privilege'.
Ms Forbes will support the First Minister in ensuring the
Scottish Government is focused on supporting economic growth,
investing in public services and eradicating child poverty.
Her Cabinet role will be confirmed in due course.
The First Minister said:
“I am very pleased to appoint Kate as Deputy First Minister and
look forward to working with her in this new government.
“She is an immensely talented politician, and her new role will
prove critical as we focus on our key commitments of eradicating
child poverty, investing in public services and supporting
economic growth.”
Deputy First Minister said:
“I am deeply honoured to accept John's invitation to be his
Deputy First Minister.
“This is a moment of extraordinary privilege for me. Having
previously served in Cabinet, I know the duty that all Ministers
have to reflect the government's priorities and the missions that
drive them.
“I look forward to working with John and Cabinet colleagues,
delivering for the people of Scotland and building a better
country.”
Background
Ms Forbes has been a Member of the Scottish Parliament (MSP) for
the Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch constituency since the 2016
Scottish Parliament election. She served as the Cabinet Secretary
for Finance and the Economy from 2020 to 2023 and became the
first Cabinet Secretary to take maternity leave in 2022.
