The Scotland Office

Scotland remains fully part of the United Kingdom with the Queen as Head of State. Whilst the Scottish Government and Scottish Parliament have full responsibility for devolved matters, some issues concerning Scotland that have a UK or international impact are dealt with by the UK Government. These issues are known as reserved matters and include things like foreign affairs, defence and national security.

The Scotland Office was established on 1 July 1999, following devolution. The Scotland Office works in partnership with the Scottish Government, but it is entirely separate from it, remaining part of the UK Government.

Leader Mr Jim Murphy MP (Labour Party)
Secretary of State for Scotland
Location Whitehall HQ, London
Melville Crescent, Scotland
Key Roles
  • Represent Scotland’s interests in the UK Government
  • Advise colleagues about distinctive Scottish aspects that arise for reasons other than the impact on devolved matters
  • Support colleagues in presenting Government policies in Scotland
  • Act as guardian to the Devolution Settlement
Employees 53 in post at Scotland Office
32 in post at Office of Advocate General


More about the Scotland Office at www.scotlandoffice.gov.uk