Scottish Politics Explained 2023

Politics Explained

Holyrood’s flagship Scottish Politics Explained event is returning, in-person at COSLA, Edinburgh, on 25 October 2023. The event will provide delegates with a thorough understanding of how the Scottish Parliament and Scottish Government operate – covering everything from the role of an MSP and the parliamentary mechanisms at their disposal, to the powers of government.  

By attending this event, delegates will learn: 

  • About the structure and everyday workings of the Parliament;
  • How the Scottish Government runs and is held to account; 
  • How to influence and engage with policymakers and the media. 

Scottish Politics Explained is particularly relevant to those working in: 

  • Policy and/or public affairs;
  • Public relations and/or communications;
  • Campaigns. 

As we begin a new parliamentary term, and with a new First Minister and Cabinet in place, now is the ideal time to learn about the processes, people and structures that matter. Join us in October to learn from experts about the Scottish political system and network with colleagues who are also seeking to engage with parliamentarians and influence policy.

All attendees will receive a copy of Holyrood’s Communications Guide and Political Guide, and have the chance to win a year’s subscription to the Holyrood Magazine.

Deputy Director for Cabinet, Parliament and Governance
Head of Legislation and Delegated Powers
Group Head for Scrutiny
Convener of the Scottish Parliamentary Journalists Association and Scotland Political Editor, LBC
Deputy Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Local Government
Head of Policy for Scotland
Clare Haughey MSP Headshot
MSP for Rutherglen
Political Commentator and Herald Columnist
Scottish Political Editor, The Times and Sunday Times
Deputy Leader of the Scottish Labour Party and Shadow Cabinet Secretary for NHS Recovery, Health and Social Care and Drugs Policy
Former First Minister of Scotland, 2000-2001
Henry McLeish is a Scottish politician, author and academic who served as First Minister of Scotland from 2000 to 2001.
  • Structure and composition
  • Committees and Cross-Party Groups
  • Procedures and rules
  • Devolved and reserved matters
  • Engaging with MSPs and the legislative process
  • Effective lobbying within the parameters
  • Who’s who in the Scottish Government 
  • Directorates and portfolios
  • Civil servants and ministers
  • The relationship with Parliament
Discounts
Discounted rates available

50% discount for students available using code UNI50

£195
Reduced Rate

Voluntary/charitable

With annual income of less than £1m

£195 + VAT

£245
Standard Rate

Public sector/voluntary/charitable

With annual income over £1m

£245 + VAT

£295
Private Sector Rate

Commercial e.g. plc, Ltd, LLP

£295 + VAT

    Event Details
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