The Scottish Executive is the executive arm of the Scottish Parliament. It consists of a First Minister who heads it and various ministers with individual portfolios and remits. The Parliament elects the First Minister and Executive, although any party/parties that can form a majority select the First Minister, who chooses the other members thereafter.

Similar to the UK-wide form of government there is no division between Executive and Legislature, with the members of the Scottish Executive being chosen from amongst the Members of the Scottish Parliament. The members of the Executive are therefore able to influence, and in practice dicatate legislation in Scotland.

The Scottish Executive is currently formed from a coalition between the Labour Party and Lib-Dems. Current First Minister is Jack McConnell.

See also: Politics of Scotland