CARE for Scotland has congratulated John Swinney on his appointment as Scottish First Minister and urged him to work towards a more civil political discourse.

Speaking after the Perthshire North MSP won enough backing at Holyrood to succeed Humza Yousaf, Stuart Weir, Head of CARE for Scotland, commented:

“We congratulate John Swinney on his appointment as First Minister and wish him well. As others have noted, political leadership is an exacting and sacrificial role that places a strain on a person's health and affects their wider family.

“We also welcome Mr Swinney’s pledge to pursue a more civil and collaborative approach at Holyrood, which has hosted an angry and divisive political discourse in recent years. Speaking with conviction and civility benefits all parties.

“In the months ahead, we hope to see a greater focus on non-partisan working, more respectful exchanges within the Scottish Parliament, and a recognition of seminal democratic principles such as free speech and freedom of conscience.”

Notes for Editors:

CARE for Scotland is a social policy charity, bringing Christian insight to the policies and laws that affect our lives.

Contact us: press@care.org.uk