A hat-trick of new beginnings as I'm elected an MSP, appointed a Cabinet minister and a new baby is on the way – Angus Robertson MSP

Everything has been a bit of a whirlwind.

Angus Robertson and his wife Jennifer have received a Baby Box in advance of the birth of his second child (Picture: Ian Rutherford)

In the space of one week, I have had the honour to be elected as the MSP for Edinburgh Central and become the Cabinet Secretary for the Constitution, External Affairs and Culture. It is a huge undertaking.

MSPs start off without any staff and offices but the inbox steadily fills with emails from constituents needing assistance and advice. As I am quickly finding out, the realities of being a government minister involves literally mountains of papers to read and absorb.

This is my first full week in government and in parliament as a Cabinet Secretary.

In addition to the weekly Cabinet meeting chaired by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, I am also working with Deputy First Minister John Swinney on plans for the Covid recovery.

In the culture policy area there are tens of thousands of people, venues and events desperate to return to performing, trading and planning for the ‘new normal’ as we emerge from the lockdown as quickly and safely as possible.

Meanwhile, in advance of the impending birth of our second child, my wife Jennifer and I have received the Baby Box with all of its fantastic contents for the new arrival.

That includes the lovely poem from outgoing Makar Jackie Kay, called Welcome Wee One. “The hale wurld welcomes ye: The mune glowes; the hearth wairms. Let your life hae luck, health, charm.”

Thanks to everyone for their kind messages over recent weeks and for the best wishes for what is about to come.

Angus Robertson is the SNP MSP for Edinburgh Central and Constitution, External Affairs and Culture Secretary

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