This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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New MSPs sworn in today
07/05/2003
MSPs are sworn in today at the first session of the
Scottish Parliament since the May 1 election.
After taking the Oath of Allegiance, the 129
MSPs elected a Presiding Officer and two deputies in a
secret ballot.
George Reid, MSP for Ochil, is the new Presiding
Officer. Trish Godman, MSP for West Renfrewshire, and
Murray Tosh, MSP for West of Scotland, are his
deputies.
Meanwhile, some MSPs have been holding meetings in St
Andrew's House in Edinburgh to discuss their options over
the formation of a new Executive.
The Parliament has until May 28 to nominate one of its
members for appointment as First Minister to lead
the Executive.
After receiving his or her Warrant of Appointment from
the Queen the First Minister may, with the agreement of
Parliament and the approval of the Queen, then appoint
Scottish Ministers and Deputy Ministers.
Details of the outcome of the election, which was held
on May 1, can be found on the
Scottish Parliament website.