Ben Macpherson

Ben Macpherson was elected as the constituency MSP for Edinburgh Northern in Leith in 2016. He is also Minister for Rural Affairs and the Natural Environment in the Scottish Government. Previously he held the roles of Minister for Europe, Migration and International Development and Minister for Public Finance. Before then, as a backbencher he served on the Justice Committee and the Social Security Committee, and was a Parliamentary Liaison Officer to the First Minister.

Ben grew up on the northern side of Edinburgh and has lived in or around Edinburgh Northern and Leith throughout most of his life. He lives in the constituency and cares passionately about all of the area’s strong, vibrant and diverse communities. He has represented the area strongly, helping thousands of individual constituents, being part of local campaigns (like the ‘Save Leith Walk’ campaign) and achieving results for local people, like stopping the threatened evictions in Lorne Street in 2016.

Ben is s a qualified solicitor and has worked previously in a variety of roles, in the private, public and third sectors. He worked as a commercial lawyer before becoming an MSP, and prior to that in renewable energy, financial services and for an international charity. Ben’s also a graduate of the University of Edinburgh and the University of York. He’s always been motivated to help achieve greater social justice and progress, which is why before being elected he was involved in politics as a campaigner and activist for many years.

As an engaged, pro-active and committed constituency MSP, Ben regularly met with local groups and attended local events. Ben held regular advice surgeries and was highly accessible to constituents. He has been a passionate voice in the Scottish Parliament for local communities, positive change and independence, and an effective Minister in the Scottish Government.