Junior education minister Ben Macpherson has resigned from the Scottish Government, citing mental and physical wellbeing as a reason for his decision.
Macpherson, who serves as the MSP for Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith, was appointed innovation, technology and tertiary education minister following the Holyrood election in May, having previously served as higher and further education minister since last September.
In a letter to First Minister John Swinney, Macpherson did not give a specific reason for his decision to stand down, but said he had "reflected very deeply in recent months" about his position and priorities.
Resignation letter
Macpherson said: "I have, however, reflected very deeply in recent months about my position and priorities in my life, and feel I need more time to be able to attend to other important pressures, people and purposes, including my mental and physical wellbeing.
"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.
"Therefore, I have come to the very difficult decision that holding ministerial office is not right for me at this time, and I wish to pass it on."
The now-former minister said the portfolio was "in a stronger place", adding that he had "worked hard and carried the responsibility carefully".
First Minister's response
Responding to Macpherson's letter, the First Minister praised his work in the post and his previous junior minister jobs, saying: "I appreciate that this will not have been an easy decision and that you have reflected carefully before you have reached your conclusion.
"In previous ministerial roles, during your time in social security, you were closely involved with the expansion of the Scottish Child Payment and launching the Adult Disability payment. And, your work in international development remains relevant to the programme we take forward in this area to this day.
"These are but a few examples of your contribution from your time in a wide range of portfolios - including finance, external affairs, rural affairs and climate, as well as in education most recently.
"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."
