Government and policies

Scotland is part of the United Kingdom, along with England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Since 1999 Scotland has had its own parliament which has certain devolved powers.

Scottish Parliament

The Scottish Parliament – which is overseen by the a presiding officer – is comprised of elected MSPs (Members of Scottish Parliament).

They have the power to pass laws on devolved matters which include health, education, the environment and the arts. They also have tax-raising powers.

Devolved government for Scotland is responsible for most of the issues of day-to-day concern to the people of Scotland, including health, education, justice, rural affairs, and transport.

People in the Scottish Government

The Scottish Government's Purpose 

To focus government and public services on creating a more successful country, with opportunities for all of Scotland to flourish, through increasing sustainable economic growth.

The Scottish Government's campaigns

  • Healthier Scotland - raising awareness of a range of healthy living issues for the well being of Scotland and its communities
  • Natural Scotland – raising awareness of the positive impact small changes we make in our lives can have on Scotland’s environment
  • Safer Scotland – addressing the issues involved in creating a safer community
  • Smarter Scotland – raising awareness of initiatives to create a smarter Scotland supporting sustained productivity growth, competitiveness and prosperity

UK parliament

Reserved matters, like the economy, defence, national security, foreign affairs and employment are the preserve of the UK Parliament in London.

Elected Scottish MPs (Members of Parliament) sit in The House of Commons at Westminster representing their constituencies at national level on reserved matters.

Scotland’s voice in reserved matters is represented by the Scotland Office which has offices in London, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The Scotland Office is headed by the Secretary of State for Scotland.