Nicola Sturgeon's Scottish Government

[One Day Soon]

Anyone have a view has to who is likely to leave the Scottish Government and who is likely to be promoted? Will the winner of the SNP Deputy Leadership contest automatically become Deputy First Minister?

I think Keith Brown is pretty effective and he looks a prospect - not just because he's a Hibee. Who else? And what's the view on any change of policy direction under Sturgeon compared to Salmond?

[allmodcons]

Anyone have a view has to who is likely to leave the Scottish Government and who is likely to be promoted? Will the winner of the SNP Deputy Leadership contest automatically become Deputy First Minister?

I think Keith Brown is pretty effective and he looks a prospect - not just because he's a Hibee. Who else? And what's the view on any change of policy direction under Sturgeon compared to Salmond?


What would it take to win your vote ODS?

[Pretty Boy]

I think she is inheriting both an exciting opportunity and a whole host of problems.

40 000 new members is all very well but how many of them joined up expecting another referendum asap? Sturgeon is a canny political operator and knows that is likely unwinnable. Can she include it in the SNP manifesto in the 2 upcoming elections? Equally can she afford not to?

It will also be interesting to see what the Scottish Tory vote does. I've posted numerous times about the historical Tory success in Scotland. A lot of the SNPs success in areas around the likes of Perth and Kinross was old Tory heartlands voting tactically to keep Labour out. After the No vote will they continue to vote SNP or will there be a Tory resurgence? A lot also depends on what happens to the Labour vote, if it collapses another majority might be on the cards, if it holds up then operating as a minority government will be exceptionally tough.

If she secures a majority it is really up to the SNP to prove they can run Scotland with the powers they have. Make a decision on what side of the political spectrum they sit and begin to evolve the economy towards a more sustainable long term model.

[One Day Soon]

What would it take to win your vote ODS?


Very, very good question AMC. You know I'm unlikely to vote SNP at any time simply because I'm against independence and for the UK arrangement. The reasons why needn't trouble us here.

However if the question were 'what do I think would make an attractive and sensible set of policies?' then there's an interesting discussion to be had.

Starting point for me is three fold: 1. nurture and support enterprise particularly through the growth of the SME sector 2. address the education issues: college cuts make no sense and neither does fee free if we are trying to promote redistributive policies particularly for those on low incomes and three 3. look at the redistributive stuff more widely - the Council Tax freeze is politically cute but disproportionately advantages the wealthy.

Re-distributing wealth through annual subsidies from wealthy to low income is all well - but it is client state stuff. I'm after genuine and permanent redistribution of wealth by giving low income families and individuals the same opportunities those on higher incomes get. Once you have equipped yourself via the education system to the fullest extent you have acquired a redistribution of wealth which it is difficult to take away from you again - unlike benefits payments or tax reductions. That's the wealth of access to opportunity.

But back to my question. What's the heads up on Nicola's Ministers and policies do you think?

[One Day Soon]

I think she is inheriting both an exciting opportunity and a whole host of problems.

40 000 new members is all very well but how many of them joined up expecting another referendum asap? Sturgeon is a canny political operator and knows that is likely unwinnable. Can she include it in the SNP manifesto in the 2 upcoming elections? Equally can she afford not to?

It will also be interesting to see what the Scottish Tory vote does. I've posted numerous times about the historical Tory success in Scotland. A lot of the SNPs success in areas around the likes of Perth and Kinross was old Tory heartlands voting tactically to keep Labour out. After the No vote will they continue to vote SNP or will there be a Tory resurgence? A lot also depends on what happens to the Labour vote, if it collapses another majority might be on the cards, if it holds up then operating as a minority government will be exceptionally tough.

If she secures a majority it is really up to the SNP to prove they can run Scotland with the powers they have. Make a decision on what side of the political spectrum they sit and begin to evolve the economy towards a more sustainable long term model.


I think this is fundamental for the remaining SNP term and for whoever follows. Scottish Enterprise seems hopeless to me. I honestly think they would be better abolishing it and splitting the money between 6 or 7 city regions as the real drivers of economic growth.

[steakbake]

I think she'll be a reasonably effective FM. I really doubt she'll have another referendum in the manifesto in 2015 but I don't think that will affect the new membership too much at this stage. Even 2016, I can't see it being a pledged commitment.

I sense they're biding their time, see how the UKGE pans out and take it from there. Also to see what new powers come out.

I think Carmichael was a bit disingenuous today by banging on about accepting the no vote: he needs to accept that she accepts it. I've certainly seen a couple of interviews where clearly she accepts the result as is but still considers the wider issue on the agenda though with a gradualist approach or as circumstances dictate (if there was an EU exit or significant let down on new powers etc). Put it this way, I doubt she'd want to lose it twice so I suspect the next time will be from a different position.

I think Keith Brown would be a good shout for deputy. We shall see how it works out in due course.

I think the Tories are due a lift at some stage and overall, I think Ruth Davidson brings a lot to that.

On the Labour side, as much as I think Johann Lamont doesn't come across all that well, it would be a shame if they jettisoned her and parachuted in the likes of Jim Murphy. I like Kezia Dugdale and there's one or two others who I think would be a more interesting choice.

All in, however the result went I think Scottish politicians will come of age after this.

[Stranraer]

Unless Graham is elected the SNP will remain pro-monarchy but I'll still vote for them with Sturgeon in charge.

[RIP]

Nicola would have run a different referendum campaign from Eck.

The whole Scottish v British thing was a red herring. The campaign worried the over 60's who saw independence as losing their attachement to being British and the UK but getting little back in return. Nicola sees Scotland as autonomous within the British Isles still getting the best of both worlds but with a strong independent Government at Holyrood. I don't think she would have got less Yes votes with that manifesto but would have pacified those who wanted a stronger voice but didn't want to lose ties with the rest of the UK.

She would have built the campaign on delivering a vision of what the new Scotland would look like rather than in the words of the RIC "Another Scotland is Possible". She is quite close to the Common Weal Scandanavian model of a fair social democratic Scotland, equal pay, equal representation, anti-nuclear, high wage, distribution of wealth economy.

Personally I think she could choose Angela Constance. If not I'd rather she chose Humza Yousaf. For me he is a rising star and I think they would complement her well. I still hope he puts himself forward

[allmodcons]

:boo hoo:
Anyone have a view has to who is likely to leave the Scottish Government and who is likely to be promoted? Will the winner of the SNP Deputy Leadership contest automatically become Deputy First Minister?

I think Keith Brown is pretty effective and he looks a prospect - not just because he's a Hibee. Who else? And what's the view on any change of policy direction under Sturgeon compared to Salmond?

To be honest, I haven't a clue what the make up of Nicola's Scottish Government will look like. I'm fairly sure, however, like anybody new to the job that she won't want to make too many changes too quickly. Your question around the election of Deputy First Minister is a good one and could be interesting. I expect the opposition parties will want to see the SNP split over this issue but, in all seriousness, do not think this is very likely. I like Keith Brown (didn't know he was a Hibee) but also like Stewart Hosie. I haven't decided who'll get my vote yet. It won't be Angela Constance, simply because I don't think she is as good a candidate as the other two. If Stewart Hosie was an MSP sitting in Edinburgh I would probably go for him, however, I'm not sure if it is a good idea having a Deputy Leader based in the cesspool that is Westminster.



Very, very good question AMC. You know I'm unlikely to vote SNP at any time simply because I'm against independence and for the UK arrangement. The reasons why needn't trouble us here.

However if the question were 'what do I think would make an attractive and sensible set of policies?' then there's an interesting discussion to be had.

Starting point for me is three fold: 1. nurture and support enterprise particularly through the growth of the SME sector 2. address the education issues: college cuts make no sense and neither does fee free if we are trying to promote redistributive policies particularly for those on low incomes and three 3. look at the redistributive stuff more widely - the Council Tax freeze is politically cute but disproportionately advantages the wealthy.

Re-distributing wealth through annual subsidies from wealthy to low income is all well - but it is client state stuff. I'm after genuine and permanent redistribution of wealth by giving low income families and individuals the same opportunities those on higher incomes get. Once you have equipped yourself via the education system to the fullest extent you have acquired a redistribution of wealth which it is difficult to take away from you again - unlike benefits payments or tax reductions. That's the wealth of access to opportunity.

But back to my question. What's the heads up on Nicola's Ministers and policies do you think?

I take onboard all of the points you make, but have to say that I don't agree with all of them! With college cuts, for example, there are good reasons why numbers have been falling (i.e. - the SNP Government have been looking to prioritise courses that improve people's chances of finding work and reduce the number of students on short courses and in leisure classes). I think I would be right in saying that the number of full time equivalent places in colleges has remained fairly static ? but wouldn't disagree that our University Sector has benefited at the hands of the College Sector. I agree with your comments around the Council Tax but, as I've said before, have yet to see a decent set of proposals from any of the opposition parties offering an alternative model that a) works and b) is redistributive.

On the subject of redistribution, I think NS should look to push for Devo Max or some form of Federalism. Whilst I'd much rather see an Independent Scotland, I think the SNP has to 'take stock', accept we lost the referendum and look to take some positives from the loss. With real Devo Max (i.e. - control of everything except Defence and Foreign Affairs) and our hands on the economic levers of power Scotland might be able to address the issue of redistribution and move towards being a more socially just society. This, of course, won't sit too well with the Fundamentalist wing of the SNP but, for me, is a pragmatic approach to gaining a great deal from defeat in the referendum.

Will it happen, who knows, a lot will depend on the outcome of the General Election next year and whether or not the leaders of your Party, particularly those North of the border have the know how and the stomach for being part of a Powerhouse Parliament (stolen from AS) that collects all tax raised here in Scotland and spends the proceeds on the priorities that matter most to people like me and you.

[Frazerbob]

I suspect Kenny Macaskill is on the way out. The fact that he was kept out of the firing line during the referendum debate and was hardly seen speaks volumes.

[Phil D. Rolls]

Nicola would have run a different referendum campaign from Eck.

The whole Scottish v British thing was a red herring. The campaign worried the over 60's who saw independence as losing their attachement to being British and the UK but getting little back in return. Nicola sees Scotland as autonomous within the British Isles still getting the best of both worlds but with a strong independent Government at Holyrood. I don't think she would have got less Yes votes with that manifesto but would have pacified those who wanted a stronger voice but didn't want to lose ties with the rest of the UK.

She would have built the campaign on delivering a vision of what the new Scotland would look like rather than in the words of the RIC "Another Scotland is Possible". She is quite close to the Common Weal Scandanavian model of a fair social democratic Scotland, equal pay, equal representation, anti-nuclear, high wage, distribution of wealth economy.

Personally I think she could choose Angela Constance. If not I'd rather she chose Humza Yousaf. For me he is a rising star and I think they would complement her well. I still hope he puts himself forward

An unscientific poll of over 60s I know suggests they were more concerned about the practicalities of a change over. For example whether there would be delays in pension payments.

Makes sense when you consider that they've lived through times when the state had been close to collapse. The whole post war period was chaotic in Britain, rationing, strikes, currency devaluation, three day week etc.

It maybe explains their reluctance to embrace a period of uncertainty. If your budget relies on receiving pension, or benefits a delay of even one day in receiving them can be disastrous.

I think Yousafs disastrous showings on TV in the referendum (Alexander played with him like a cat plays with a mouse), show he still had much to learn.

[johnbc70]

I suspect Kenny Macaskill is on the way out. The fact that he was kept out of the firing line during the referendum debate and was hardly seen speaks volumes.

For someone who was never out of the news a few years back then now you mention it yes he was hardly seen at all during the campaign. I did catch one interview with him and his reply to a question was "wait and see" so probably wise to have kept him on the sidelines.

[CropleyWasGod]

An unscientific poll of over 60s I know suggests they were more concerned about the practicalities of a change over. For example whether there would be delays in pension payments.

Makes sense when you consider that they've lived through times when the state had been close to collapse. The whole post war period was chaotic in Britain, rationing, strikes, currency devaluation, three day week etc.

It maybe explains their reluctance to embrace a period of uncertainty. If your budget relies on receiving pension, or benefits a delay of even one day in receiving them can be disastrous.

I think Yousafs disastrous showings on TV in the referendum (Alexander played with him like a cat plays with a mouse), show he still had much to learn.

I like Yousaf. However, like you, I think his time is yet to come.

[CropleyWasGod]

I suspect Kenny Macaskill is on the way out. The fact that he was kept out of the firing line during the referendum debate and was hardly seen speaks volumes.

Rumoured to be replaced by Roseanna Cunningham. Not a person I warm to. :rolleyes:

[One Day Soon]

Deputy Leader candidates now at three - Hosie, Brown and Constance.

I was told by an SNP chum the other day that Constance was the favourite - that can't be right surely?

Has Sturgeon made any policy statements to date since announcing her candidacy? I'd be interested to know what platform she is running on. I'm not that interested in her or the party's position on Independence or more powers - that's well rehearsed and will play out over the coming months anyway. I'm keen to know where a Sturgeon led Scottish Government will want to head on the NHS, education, jobs, housing, transport and all the other bread and butter stuff.

[Hibrandenburg]

It pretty much all in the link you can't be bothered reading.

[One Day Soon]

It pretty much all in the link you can't be bothered reading.


I took you at your word and read it. That's half an hour of my life I won't get back.

It is a document setting out the constitutional maximalist position of the SNP for the Smith discussions - which is absolutely fair enough. But it does not set out Nicola's policy position for her imminent administration and in fact it also doesn't really set out prospective policies for a theoretical future Scotland in which all those powers would sit at Holyrood either.

So as regards the policy of Nicola's SNP using the present powers it doesn't tell us anything.

[Phil D. Rolls]

Has Nicola Sturgeon set out any plans for the administration she hasn't been elected to run yet?

Discuss with reference to post referendum attitudes to the democratic process.

Pass Mark 45%

[Peevemor]

Rumoured to be replaced by Roseanna Cunningham. Not a person I warm to. :rolleyes:

I spent a week in Rosie Anna's company about 20 years ago. She's strange.

[allmodcons]

I took you at your word and read it. That's half an hour of my life I won't get back.

It is a document setting out the constitutional maximalist position of the SNP for the Smith discussions - which is absolutely fair enough. But it does not set out Nicola's policy position for her imminent administration and in fact it also doesn't really set out prospective policies for a theoretical future Scotland in which all those powers would sit at Holyrood either.

So as regards the policy of Nicola's SNP using the present powers it doesn't tell us anything.

It's hard to imagine she will deviate much from the 2011 manifesto commitments that put the SNP where they are now.
I don't think we'll get a proper look at SNP policy under Nicola until she launches the 2016 SNP Scottish Election manifesto.
The direction of the SNP under NS and the content of said manifesto will depend on and be driven by (massively) the outcome of the Smith Commission.

[steakbake]

Deputy Leader candidates now at three - Hosie, Brown and Constance.

I was told by an SNP chum the other day that Constance was the favourite - that can't be right surely?

Has Sturgeon made any policy statements to date since announcing her candidacy? I'd be interested to know what platform she is running on. I'm not that interested in her or the party's position on Independence or more powers - that's well rehearsed and will play out over the coming months anyway. I'm keen to know where a Sturgeon led Scottish Government will want to head on the NHS, education, jobs, housing, transport and all the other bread and butter stuff.

We'll probably have to wait till she's officially leader and FM.

[Hibrandenburg]

I took you at your word and read it. That's half an hour of my life I won't get back.


We're still nowhere near quits. :wink:

[One Day Soon]

We'll probably have to wait till she's officially leader and FM.


I can't recall a leadership election in just about any party - even uncontested - where the candidate(s) haven't made some kind of public policy statement about their intended leadership.

What are the candidates for Deputy Leader saying?

[allmodcons]

I can't recall a leadership election in just about any party - even uncontested - where the candidate(s) haven't made some kind of public policy statement about their intended leadership.

What are the candidates for Deputy Leader saying?

I'm going along to Deputy Leader hustings on Sunday.
Looking forward to seeing how the 3 challengers 'pitch it'

[heretoday]

Doesn't anyone want to stand against Sturgeon? That indicates a solidarity that is most impressive.

It's like Russia or something.

[Peevemor]

Doesn't anyone want to stand against Sturgeon? That indicates a solidarity that is most impressive.

It's like Russia or something.

I think everyone knows that it would be a waste of time.

She stole the show in the referendum campaign, giving it her all without putting a foot wrong. I can't remember being so impressed by a politician over a prolonged period.

[ronaldo7]

Looks like Nicola will be on tour round Scotland in the next couple of months to meet new members of the SNP, whilst holding the WM parties to account for "The Vow"/Home Rule/Federalism/Devo MAX.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-29618913

[Phil D. Rolls]

Is she first minister yet?

[heretoday]

There's something opaque about Nicola. Does she have a secret? Only time will tell.

[Future17]

Is she first minister yet?

Will have to wait til the Scottish Parliament is sitting again and Eck officially steps aside.

[One Day Soon]

Is she still committed to a Local Income Tax? I don't think they need any more powers to implement that and was it not in the manifesto?

[ronaldo7]

Let's get this party started Nicola.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JMZD2f6Tyeg&feature=youtu.be

[Hibrandenburg]

Let's get this party started Nicola.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JMZD2f6Tyeg&feature=youtu.be

Just watching that reminds me more of the German Parliament in Berlin than Westminster. That can only be a good thing. Gaun yersel hen.

[ronaldo7]

Started with a well balanced cabinet.

http://news.scotland.gov.uk/News/New-Cabinet-unveiled-1282.aspx

[marinello59]

Started with a well balanced cabinet.

http://news.scotland.gov.uk/News/New-Cabinet-unveiled-1282.aspx

I'm liking it so far. Really pleased to see Swinney as the Deputy FM.

[snooky]

Started with a well balanced cabinet.

http://news.scotland.gov.uk/News/New-Cabinet-unveiled-1282.aspx

I'm not in favour of a 'balanced cabinet' based on gender. It's sexist, IMO.
The best person for the post should get the position no matter what their gender is.
The cabinet could be all women or all men, I don't care, as long as the right person is in the right job.

While I understand why she did it, for me, it's the first poor call by Nicola.
Nevertheless, I'm sure there will be many on here with a very different viewpoint.
With that in mind I think I better don this :tin hat: :wink:

[marinello59]

I'm not in favour of a 'balanced cabinet' based on gender. It's sexist, IMO.
The best person for the post should get the position no matter what their gender is.
The cabinet could be all women or all men, I don't care, as long as the right person is in the right job.

While I understand why she did it, for me, it's the first poor call by Nicola.
Nevertheless, I'm sure there will be many on here with a very different viewpoint.
With that in mind I think I better don this :tin hat: :wink:

Maybe they are.:greengrin
She's not just talking the talk about equality, she is leading by example and that has to be applauded.

[ronaldo7]

I'm not in favour of a 'balanced cabinet' based on gender. It's sexist, IMO.
The best person for the post should get the position no matter what their gender is.
The cabinet could be all women or all men, I don't care, as long as the right person is in the right job.

While I understand why she did it, for me, it's the first poor call by Nicola.
Nevertheless, I'm sure there will be many on here with a very different viewpoint.
With that in mind I think I better don this :tin hat: :wink:

Who said it's balanced on gender?

Maybe it's balanced on skill sets of each minister.

[snooky]

Who said it's balanced on gender?

Maybe it's balanced on skill sets of each minister.

That is my point exactly. However, 50/50 does seem a little contrived (like some acronyms that conveniently spell a buzzword)

[snooky]

Yet another gender-based headline by Nicola Sturgeon today (BBC website).

"Nicola Sturgeon out to smash glass ceiling" - 'Speaking at the annual SNP's women's conference in Ayr, Nicola Sturgeon will say she wants to "ensure there are no limits on women's ambitions'.

For the record, I am 100% behind equality for women - it's long overdue.
That said, I think at this moment in time Nicola should be pointing her guns in the same direction that Eck was.

There again, maybe it's a political move to get the NO women voters on her side.
Aay, what a tangled web we weave .... :coffee:

[CapitalGreen]

Yet another gender-based headline by Nicola Sturgeon today (BBC website).

"Nicola Sturgeon out to smash glass ceiling" - 'Speaking at the annual SNP's women's conference in Ayr, Nicola Sturgeon will say she wants to "ensure there are no limits on women's ambitions'.

For the record, I am 100% behind equality for women - it's long overdue.
That said, I think at this moment in time Nicola should be pointing her guns in the same direction that Eck was.

There again, maybe it's a political move to get the NO women voters on her side.
Aay, what a tangled web we weave .... :coffee:

Nicola Sturgeon wrote the headline?

[snooky]

Nicola Sturgeon wrote the headline?

:greengrin

Okay, sub 'by' with 'about' :cb