Scottish government minister Ben Macpherson resigns

Ben Macpherson, the Scottish government's minister for innovation, technology and tertiary education, has resigned.

The SNP MSP said he wanted to focus on other "important pressures", including his mental and physical health.

Macpherson, who represents Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith, had served in various junior ministerial roles since 2018.

He said it had been a "very difficult decision" and reiterated his support for John Swinney and his government.

Macpherson served as minister for Europe, public finances, social security and rural affairs between 2018 and 2023. He returned to government in September 2025.

In a statement, Macpherson said he needed "more time to be able to attend to other important pressures, people and purposes, including my mental and physical well-being".

He added: "Without the constraints and demands of a ministerial role, I also want to have more time and scope to serve my constituency of Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith, and to pursue various political passions outwith government."

Swinney said Macpherson had made a "significant contribution in government".

He added: "I know the diligence in which you serve the people of Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith as an SNP MSP, and I look forward to you continuing to do so in the SNP parliamentary group.

"I hope that the time away from government you are now taking can lead you a stronger, more resilient place. You have my very best wishes in doing so."