New Scottish cabinet holds first meeting

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Humza Yousaf chairs his first cabinet meetingImage source, PA Media
Image caption,

Mr Yousaf chaired his first cabinet meeting in Bute House on Friday

First Minister Humza Yousaf's new cabinet has held its first formal meeting.

The 10-strong team has five members under the age of 40 and, for the first time, a majority of women.

Mr Yousaf announced his cabinet on Wednesday after being sworn in as Nicola Sturgeon's successor as first minister.

Some of the new appointments were sworn into their roles at the Court of Session on Friday morning.

Speaking after the meeting in Bute House, Edinburgh, Mr Yousaf said he wanted to create a forum for "open and honest discussion".

"The ministerial team have been tasked with taking a bold approach to how we govern - not just in addressing the challenges facing the people of Scotland, but also maximising the opportunities of our many strengths," he said.

Scottish Labour described the new cabinet team as "dismal", while the Scottish Conservatives said it contained "failed, continuity ministers appointed by a failed, continuity minister".

Image source, Reuters
Image source, PA Media
Image caption,

The new cabinet team, which was unveiled on Wednesday, consists of six women and three men

Image source, Reuters
Image caption,

Humza Yousaf's picture now hangs on the wall inside Bute House