The Scottish Government
The 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.
The Scottish Government was known as the Scottish Executive when it was established in 1999 following the first elections to the Scottish Parliament. The current administration was formed after elections in May 2011.
On 15th October 2012, the Edinburgh Agreement was signed by First Minister Alex Salmond and UK Prime Minister David Cameron. It paves the way for a referendum on Scottish independence in 2014 by confirming the Scottish Parliament’s power to hold a vote that will be respected by both governments.
In March 2013, it was announced that the independence referendum will take place on Thursday, September 18, 2014. Find out more about the Referendum or read the announcement.
Scotland's Constitutional History
The 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.