After over four decades in the SNP and nearly two in government, John Swinney is finally stepping up to the top job for the first time, becoming Scotland’s new First Minister.
He’s no stranger to big jobs - it’s actually his second stint as SNP leader - but leading his country and his party is looking tougher than ever, as the SNP finds itself facing formidable challenges.
Who is this stalwart of the SNP, and do his life and experiences equip him for the task ahead? Mark Coles talks to friends, colleagues, and those who’ve watched this political operator up close for years.
Presenter: Mark Coles Producer: Nathan Gower Assistant Producer: Diane Richardson and Marianna Brain Editor: Tom Bigwood Programme Coordinators: Maria Ogundele and Sabine Schereck Sound Engineer: Neil Churchill
Music:
‘John Swinney (We Salute You)' by Nocturnal Vermin (Isaac Brutal, James ‘Slippyunderfoot‘ McCready, Arnold Bastard)
Bongbong Marcos
Sonia Boyce OBE
Lisa McGee
Marine Le Pen
Christian Smalls
Martin Lewis
Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson
Jacqueline Wilson
Lynsey Addario
Jens Stoltenberg
Sir Nick Clegg
Ben Wallace
Jimmy Carr
Joe Rogan
Volodomyr Zelensky
Sue Gray
Novak Djokovic
Oksana Lyniv
David Murdoch
Pharoah Sanders
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