NOW that the votes are in – and it’s a Labour landslide – it’s time for politicians and punters alike to take stock.
At the start of the election campaign, we handpicked readers with real-life expertise to be our Scottish Sun Cabinet, to give their views on the runners and riders, and their policies.
Now our specially-appointed group has cast their own votes – and deliver their verdict on the result.
FOREIGN AND DEFENCE SECRETARY
PETER McLellan, who served in the army for 15 years, is delighted with the way the vote went.
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The 58-year-old from Edinburgh said: “Well we all knew it’d be an easy kill for Labour. I’m pleased with the result. I think they’ll stand by their word. They’ve got another kick of the ball so hopefully they don’t let us down.
“I hope they bring about the changes they say they will. Right now, we have a military, but not one who are ready for war. We’d probably run a mile if there were a real threat.
“I’m glad to see the SNP have lost seats. They had it coming with everything that’s come to light recently. And as much as the cause for independence is all fair and well, in practice it would crucify us financially just like Brexit has.”
JUSTICE SECRETARY
EX police officer Simon McLean believes the new Prime Minister is ignorant of issues in the justice system.
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The 65-year-old podcaster said: “The pendulum has swung again, ensuring millions are spent reversing right wing ideology. And it likely will do the same in four or eight years time.
“Our constitution ensures there can never be government by consensus and that the majority of people are ignored. No one can plan beyond five years.
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“Starmer has no idea what the justice issues really are and, from his pedestal, there is no sight of any real solutions.
“As for Scotland we are back to being a branch office of Westminster, with no identity, no say at all and only a future deemed appropriately for us by our masters. Justice is a dream some of us cling to and continue to strive for.”
FINANCE SECRETARY
DANIEL Hough, 35, a wealth manager for financial planner RBC Brewin Dolphin, thinks there’s clear plan ahead.
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The Aberdeen dad-of-two said: “Labour’s landslide election victory means there should be a clear policy direction for the years ahead.
“The party has been clear about its desire to restore economic stability, focus on green growth, delivering the transition to net zero, and introducing a modern industrial strategy.
“Scotland will have a big role to play in supporting the latter three aims, in particular, with large energy and manufacturing industries.
“Tax will be another key area to watch – although varying income tax rates is devolved, the Scottish Government will no doubt watch what Labour does with interest and any changes further down the line could well influence what happens with our own tax system.”
EDUCATION SECRETARY
FORMER teacher Freddie Main wants to make the best of the result.
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The Edinburgh 44-year-old said: “My view is always to make the best of whatever the situation is.
“In terms of education, if Labour come through on things like free breakfast for every primary school child and a focus on sports and arts in schools then those are positives.
“I’m a big believer in promoting wellbeing and creativity and as a former Design and Technology teacher there’s a lot of worrying talk about Design and Technology departments and the subject almost disappearing.
“This is a huge concern for me because it’s a driver for developing creativity and skills in young people.
“It’s all about Labour following through on their pledges.”
HEALTH SECRETARY
FORMER nurse Karyn Hamilton, 39, wants the new leading party to stick to their pledges and tackle the NHS crisis.
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The mum-of six from Broxburn said: “I hope that Labour keep the promises of their manifesto. The country definitely needed a change.
“Going forward, I want to see the NHS being better looked after and nurtured.
“I hope to see Labour continue to focus on mental health issues and fulfil their vows to reduce NHS waiting times.
“I am gutted that my MP, Hannah Bardell, has lost her seat. I’m from Livingston and she has been a huge asset to our constituency over the last nine years.”
BUSINESS SECRETARY
CONVENIENCE shop owner Asiyah Javed, 38, is happy Labour won over the Tories.
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The mum-of-three, from Stenhousemuir, said: “I was just hoping for anyone but the Conservatives to win. We’d all had enough of their rubbish. It was a long time coming.
“ I’ll happily take a Labour win. They’re vowing to reduce mortgage and interest rates and, in a cost-of-living crisis, that’s exactly what we need.
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“I hope that with Labour in power, they’ll make everyone’s life that little bit easier. A lot of their manifesto was directed at the average working person and it’s nice to know that they’re on our side.”
“But they have promised an awful lot so we’ll just have to wait and see how they get on.”
