Shona Robison, Scotland‘s Finance Secretary and a stalwart of the Scottish National Party (SNP), has announced her decision to step down from the Scottish Parliament at the next Holyrood election in May 2026.
Robison, 58, has been an MSP since the parliament’s inception in 1999, initially representing the North East region until 2003 and subsequently serving as the MSP for Dundee City East.
Throughout her tenure, she has held several key ministerial positions, including roles in health, social justice, housing, and local government.
Notably, she served as Deputy First Minister under Humza Yousaf and, since 2023, has been the Finance Secretary, overseeing the delivery of the Scottish Budget.
In her statement, Robison expressed that, after 27 years as an MSP, it was time to embrace new challenges and contribute to public life differently.
She highlighted her pride in achievements such as overseeing Glasgow’s 2014 Commonwealth Games, implementing minimum unit pricing for alcohol, and significantly increasing the Scottish Child Payment.
First Minister John Swinney praised Robison’s dedication, acknowledging her significant contributions to both her constituents in Dundee City East and to Scotland as a whole.
He noted her instrumental role in various initiatives and expressed his gratitude for her years of service.
Ms Robison’s departure adds to a growing list of senior SNP figures who have recently announced their intentions to leave Holyrood.
Earlier this week, veteran nationalist Annabelle Ewing, currently a deputy presiding officer at Holyrood, confirmed she would not seek re-election.
Additionally, former minister Joe FitzPatrick, MSP for Dundee City West, announced his decision to step down in January.
As the SNP approaches the next election, these departures mark a period of transition, with the party poised to introduce new candidates to carry forward its vision for Scotland.
