Holyrood reform moves step forward

What's happened

The Scottish Parliament has confirmed a new Presiding Officer, Kenny Gibson, who is promising a program of reform to the chamber’s proceedings. He has set out a plan for shorter, more dynamic FMQs and greater cross‑party engagement, while emphasising that the chamber should be more topical and less dull.

What's behind the headline?

Analysis

Gibson has positioned himself as an insurgent within the SNP, aiming to re‑shape proceedings to be more responsive and topical.
The reform plan includes two 30‑minute FMQ sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with sequencing by party and no published advance questions, which could alter how ministers prepare and respond.
Critics may worry about maintaining civility as sessions become more boisterous; supporters say the changes could revive engagement and accountability.
The outcome will hinge on whether MSPs across parties buy into the new format and whether the innovations endure beyond a six‑to‑twelve‑month trial period.
The broader context is a parliament negotiating its identity after a historically diverse election, with Reform UK and Labour taking positions as potential kingmakers in a split chamber.

How we got here

Kenny Gibson has been elected as the Scottish Parliament’s Presiding Officer after a vote that saw him prevail in the final round with 74 votes to 54. He has identified a desire to overhaul Holyrood’s weekly schedule and to push for continuous change, arguing that the chamber has become ossified.

Our analysis

The Scotsman has reported Gibson’s plans and remarks on the changes; The Scotsman also covered reaction ahead of and after the vote. The Guardian and The Scotsman have provided context about party standings and early parliamentary dynamics.

Go deeper

Will the new FMQ format change how ministers answer questions on the floor?
How will other MSPs respond to the new, unscripted questions and reduced pre‑planning?
What happens if the six‑month trial reveals more complications than benefits?