Who are the new female faces in the Scottish cabinet?

Jenny Gilruth, minister for Europe and international development

As Europe minister, the former modern studies teacher finds herself catapulted into a role that may prove critical in the coming months and years as the SNP seeks to maintain foster close relations with the EU in the hope of one day rejoining under independence. She was only elected to Parliament four years ago and currently sits on Holyrood’s education, justice and policing committees. She is the partner of former Labour leader Kezia Dugdale.

Kate Forbes, secretary for finance

The 29-year-old was elected in the Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch constituency in 2016, with a majority of more than 9,000 and has enjoyed a rapid rise. After graduating in history from Cambridge University she went on to work as an accountant. She has made a strong impression on business leaders after helping thwart opposition plans to hand powers over non-domestic rates to local councils. She takes on one of the most responsible roles in government after the devolution of sweeping new tax powers to Holyrood in recent years.

Fiona Hyslop, secretary for economy, fair work and culture

One of the most experienced ministers at Holyrood having served continuously in office throughout the 13-and-a-half years which the SNP has held power in Scotland. She is also one of the few MSPS to have been at Holyrood since it was established 21 years ago. The economy brief will be a key one in the looming constitutional debate as the SNP seeks to hold a fresh referendum on independence and convince Scots of the financial case for leaving the UK and going it alone.