Kate Forbes is a Scottish National Party (SNP) politician who has been serving as the Member of the Scottish Parliament (MSP) for Skye, Lochaber, and Badenoch since May 2016. Forbes has held significant positions within the Scottish Government, including Cabinet Secretary for Finance and the Economy from 2020 to 2023.
She is known for her conservative social views and her stance on Scottish independence.
Born on April 6, 1990, in Dingwall, Scotland, Forbes was raised between India and Scotland. She is a fluent Gaelic speaker, having been educated at a Gaelic school.
Forbes earned a BA in History from Selwyn College, Cambridge, and an MSc in Diaspora and Migration History from the University of Edinburgh. Her early career included working as a researcher in the Scottish Parliament.
Kate Forbes' political career began with her election to the Scottish Parliament in 2016. Initially appointed as Minister for Public Finance and Digital Economy, she was promoted to Cabinet Secretary for Finance and the Economy in February 2020 following Derek Mackay's resignation.
Her tenure as finance secretary was notably impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated economic challenges.
Forbes ran for the leadership of the SNP in 2023, following Nicola Sturgeon's resignation. Despite her significant support, she lost to Humza Yousaf by a narrow margin.
Forbes is recognized for her conservative viewpoints within the generally progressive SNP, particularly her opposition to same-sex marriage and certain abortion rights, views influenced by her deep Christian faith.
Forbes is a staunch supporter of Scottish independence, advocating for a second referendum post-pandemic. She has suggested using a parliamentary election as a de facto referendum to pressure the UK government to allow a formal vote.
During her time as finance secretary, Forbes advocated for progressive taxation and economic policies aimed at reducing inequality and supporting growth. She participated in the Sustainable Growth Commission, which outlined economic strategies for an independent Scotland.
Forbes is married to Alasdair MacLennan and they have one child. She is known for her involvement in the Free Church of Scotland, which aligns with her conservative social outlook.
Kate Forbes remains a prominent figure in Scottish politics, known for her fiscal expertise and her conservative stance on social issues, marking a contrast with the SNP's generally more liberal policies.
The SNP’s local government manifesto outlines a series of targeted interventions designed to improve the livelihood of Scots through concerted efforts in social, economic, and environmental areas.
To combat the rising cost of living, the manifesto proposes prioritized support for those with the lowest incomes. This could involve tailored subsidies, tax relief programs, or direct financial assistance to help manage daily expenses and reduce economic strain on vulnerable populations.
Addressing fuel poverty is crucial, particularly in colder climates. The SNP suggests implementing policies that could include subsidies for energy-efficient appliances, better home insulation programs, and perhaps renewable energy solutions to decrease the overall energy costs for heating and powering homes.
By developing a comprehensive childcare system that offers free services to low-income families, the SNP aims to alleviate the burden of childcare costs. This initiative would not only support working parents but also ensure early educational enrichment for children.
The advancement of a National Care Service signifies a substantial investment in community health and social care. A proposed 25% increase in social care investment is expected to enhance the quality and accessibility of care services, from elderly care to disability support, thereby supporting the well-being of all community members.
The manifesto pledges to increase the education workforce significantly, which includes the recruitment of at least 3,500 additional teachers and 500 classroom assistants. This boost in staffing is designed to reduce class sizes, improve individual attention to students, and enhance educational outcomes.
In terms of economic recovery post-pandemic, there is a strong focus on creating fair and sustainable job opportunities. This could involve support for industries that offer long-term employment prospects and contribute positively to the local and national economy.
With an ambitious goal to build 110,000 affordable homes by 2032, 70% of which are designated for social rent, the SNP addresses the critical need for housing. This initiative aims to provide secure, quality housing that is financially accessible to more people.
Enhancing community facilities like sports, leisure, and cultural activities, especially for children from low-income backgrounds, is a priority. The development of community gardens and local food initiatives could also foster community spirit and promote healthier lifestyles.
Expanding healthcare services to be more accessible in community settings aims to reduce hospital congestion and provide more localized and efficient care for residents.
By improving mental health resources and training, and ensuring the availability of green spaces, the manifesto acknowledges the critical role of mental well-being in overall health. Access to nature and improved mental health services are seen as vital to community health.
The manifesto emphasizes the enhancement of infrastructure to support walking and cycling, reducing reliance on cars, and promoting healthier, more environmentally friendly methods of travel.
Commitment to environmental protection and sustainability includes aligning with global climate goals and fostering local ecological projects, which might involve preserving natural habitats and promoting biodiversity.
Advocating for a shift to proportional representation aims to ensure a more equitable and representative electoral system, moving away from the ‘first-past-the-post’ system.
Increasing local government accountability and promoting community involvement in decision-making processes are intended to make government actions more transparent and aligned with the needs of the populace.
The manifesto supports the Scottish Government's plan to hold a referendum on Scotland's independence within the current parliamentary term, highlighting a strategic political objective of the SNP.
Increasing access to cultural resources and supporting the preservation of Scottish heritage are seen as essential to maintaining and celebrating Scotland’s cultural identity. Overall, the manifesto paints a picture of a proactive approach to governance, with a strong emphasis on social justice, economic stability, and environmental stewardship, aiming for a holistic improvement in the quality of life across Scotland.