John Swinney: “We will continue to use all the powers available to build prosperity, while making the case for greater powers to help…”

I am very pleased to appoint Alyn Smith as Minister-designate for Innovation, Technology and Tertiary Education.

My commitment to the people of Scotland is clear. You come first. Government works for you and will always be alive to the realities of your day-to-day experience.

But ultimately, Scotland’s constitutional future should be a matter only for the people of Scotland.

What is now needed is the UK Government to respect the voice of the Scottish people and Parliament and transfer the necessary powers.