Kate Forbes appointed deputy first minister

Kate Forbes has returned to the Scottish government as deputy first minister.

The former finance secretary was appointed by new first minister John Swinney after opting not to run against him for the SNP leadership.

She will replace outgoing deputy first minster Shona Robison.

Mr Swinney is making cabinet appointments at his official residence, Bute House, after being sworn in at the Court of Session.

Ms Forbes, who has spent more than a year as a backbench MSP after stepping down from government in March 2023, had been promised a "significant" role in the government.

She said she was "deeply honoured" to accept the position.

In a statement, Ms Robison said she had told Mr Swinney last week she believed stepping down in favour of Ms Forbes would help to unite the SNP.

"I told you I believed this would strongly signal that for all of us in government, this is the best approach to showing we are united and ready to serve the people of Scotland," Ms Robison said.

"It is also in the best interests of your leadership and for the party; and both of us have always put public duty and the interests of the party over and above any self interest."

The cabinet appointments will be formally approved in parliament on Thursday.

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