Finance secretary Kate Forbes expecting first child

Finance secretary Kate Forbes is expecting her first child in the summer, the Scottish Government has announced.

The SNP MSP will become the first cabinet secretary to take maternity leave, with other ministers likely stepping in to cover her responsibilities. The government made it clear that Forbes was "not leaving government and will remain Cabinet Secretary for Finance and the Economy while on leave, resuming her duties upon her return."

As ministers are deemed to be ‘holders of public office’ and are not contracted employees it is the Scottish Parliament that is responsible for paying Ministers and MSPs.

Forbes said: “My husband Ali and I are absolutely thrilled to announce we are expecting a baby later this year and we’re looking forward to welcoming a new member of our family.

“I am equally pleased to be the first serving Cabinet Secretary to take maternity leave in Scotland which I hope sends a clear and strong message that holding a senior leadership role in the public eye should not be a barrier to starting a family.  

“For now, I remain focused on tackling the biggest issues of the day, including passing the 2022-2023 Scottish Budget later this week.”

Nicola Sturgeon congratulated Forbes and Ali. She said: “I am pleased Kate will be able to enjoy those precious early months with her new arrival and her wider family.

"This should never be a barrier to someone’s career, especially women in senior leadership roles.

"That’s why we are clear Kate is not leaving government. She will remain Cabinet Secretary for Finance and the Economy while on leave and take up her duties again upon her return.”