Leader of the Opposition (Scotland) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Leader of the Opposition in the Scottish Parliament |
|
|---|---|
| Style | Member of the Scottish Parliament (MSP) |
| Term length | While leader of the largest political party not in government |
| Inaugural holder | Alex Salmond |
| Formation | May 1999 |
The Leader of the Opposition is a very important job in the Scottish Parliament. This person is the head of the largest political party that is not currently running the government. Their main role is to question the government and offer different ideas for how Scotland should be run. Since August 11, 2020, Ruth Davidson of the Scottish Conservative Party has held this position.
Contents
What is the Scottish Parliament?
The Scottish Parliament is where laws are made for Scotland. It is located in Edinburgh. People in Scotland vote for representatives called Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs). These MSPs work together to make decisions that affect everyone in Scotland.
How Does Government Work in Scotland?
After an election, the political party (or a group of parties) that wins the most MSPs usually forms the government. This government then makes and carries out policies. The party with the second-highest number of MSPs, or the largest party not in government, becomes the "Opposition."
Role of the Leader of the Opposition
The Leader of the Opposition has a crucial job. They lead the main group that challenges the government.
Why is the Opposition Important?
- Holding the Government Accountable: The Leader of the Opposition and their party ask tough questions about the government's plans and actions. This helps make sure the government is doing a good job and spending money wisely.
- Offering Alternatives: They present different ideas and policies. This shows the public that there are other ways to solve problems in Scotland.
- Representing Other Views: Not everyone agrees with the government. The Opposition gives a voice to those who have different opinions or concerns.
- Preparing for the Future: The Leader of the Opposition is often seen as a potential future First Minister (the head of the Scottish Government). Their role helps them prepare for leading the country.
Who Has Been Leader of the Opposition?
Since the Scottish Parliament started in 1999, several people have served as the Leader of the Opposition. This role usually goes to the leader of the second-largest party.
- Alex Salmond (Scottish National Party) - May 12, 1999 - September 26, 2000
- John Swinney (Scottish National Party) - September 26, 2000 - September 3, 2004
- Nicola Sturgeon (Scottish National Party) - September 3, 2004 - May 17, 2007
- Jack McConnell (Scottish Labour Party) - May 17, 2007 - August 15, 2007
- Cathy Jamieson (Scottish Labour Party) - August 15, 2007 - September 14, 2007
- Wendy Alexander (Scottish Labour Party) - September 14, 2007 - June 28, 2008
- Cathy Jamieson (Scottish Labour Party) - June 28, 2008 - September 14, 2008
- Iain Gray (Scottish Labour Party) - September 13, 2008 - December 17, 2011
- Johann Lamont (Scottish Labour Party) - December 17, 2011 - October 24, 2014
- Jackie Baillie (Scottish Labour Party) - October 24, 2014 - December 13, 2014
- Kezia Dugdale (Scottish Labour Party) - December 13, 2014 - June 13, 2015
- Iain Gray – (Scottish Labour Party) – June 13, 2015 – August 15, 2015
- Kezia Dugdale (Scottish Labour Party) – August 15, 2015 – May 6, 2016
- Ruth Davidson (Scottish Conservative Party) – May 6, 2016 - September 15, 2018
- Jackson Carlaw (Scottish Conservative Party) – September 15, 2018 – May 3, 2019
- Ruth Davidson (Scottish Conservative Party) – May 3, 2019 – August 29, 2019
- Jackson Carlaw (Scottish Conservative Party) – August 29, 2019 – July 30, 2020
- Ruth Davidson (Scottish Conservative Party) – August 11, 2020 – present
