Part of the debate – in the Scottish Parliament at 7:59 pm on 20 January 2026.
Ben Macpherson
Scottish National Party
7:59,
20 January 2026
I was educated in our system in Scotland to believe in the importance of critical thinking, and that will be crucial in the period ahead. Indeed, I apply it to all my decisions as a Minister and as an MSP.
It was, of course, prudent for me to consider the bill with a fresh perspective. Through the engagement that I had and the reassurance that I was given, I came to the firm view that this is a necessary piece of legislation. We must get ready for what is coming, we must continue to progress, and we must build on the expert evidence that is presented to us, and which was presented to us in the Withers review.
The bill offers a sound and balanced foundation for a simpler, more joined-up tertiary education and training system, one that can continue to evolve in partnership with this Parliament, the education sector, the business community, the people whom we serve, and, of course, the staff who work to support learners and innovation every day.
Ministers make up the Government and almost all are members of the House of Lords or the House of Commons. There are three main types of Minister. Departmental Ministers are in charge of Government Departments. The Government is divided into different Departments which have responsibilities for different areas. For example the Treasury is in charge of Government spending. Departmental Ministers in the Cabinet are generally called 'Secretary of State' but some have special titles such as Chancellor of the Exchequer. Ministers of State and Junior Ministers assist the ministers in charge of the department. They normally have responsibility for a particular area within the department and are sometimes given a title that reflects this - for example Minister of Transport.
