SCOTTISH CABINET : 3RD ADMINISTRATION : FIRST MINISTER
The office of First Minister was created in 1999 following devolution of powers to the Scottish Parliament in 1999. The First Minister is the leader of the devolved Scottish administration originally known as the Scottish Executive (1999-2007), and known as the Scottish Government from 2007 onwards. The First Minister chairs the Scottish Cabinet and is the Keeper of the Great Seal of Scotland. The First Minister is nominated by the Scottish Parliament and formally appointed by the monarch. The 3rd Administration refers to the Scottish National Party (SNP) minority Scottish Government, which was elected at the third Scottish Parliament election on 3 May 2007. Alex Salmond held the position of 3rd Administration First Minister.