Scottish first minister Nicola Sturgeon announced the creation of the new post alongside a cabinet reshuffle. She said Cunningham will be responsible for “driving forward work to allow Scotland to meet its ambitious climate change targets”.
The briefs were previously the responsibility of the cabinet secretary for rural affairs, food and environment – a now defunct post which was held by Richard Lochhead. The position of minister for environment, climate change and land reform, which reported to the secretary, has also been scrapped.
The energy brief has been transferred to the newly created portfolio of economy, jobs and fair work, with Keith Brown appointed as the cabinet secretary.
It was formerly the responsibility of Fergus Ewing as the minister for business, energy and tourism, reporting to the finance and economy secretary. The finance and economy post has been split in two and Brown’s new role is one of them. Ewing has been made cabinet secretary for the rural economy and connectivity.
Paul Wheelhouse has been appointed as the new minister for business, innovation and energy.