New First Minister for Scotland

Nearly two weeks after the elections to the Scottish Parliament, Alex Salmond has at last become First Minister. It was a very civil affair, with congratulations coming from out-going First Minister Jack McConnell, and Liberal Democrat leader and out-going Deputy First Minister Nicol Stephen. However, it was Scottish Tory leader Annabel Goldie, in a speech lasting just 52 seconds, who stole the show by pledging to keep the new First Minister in order.

Over the last two weeks, though, we have seen a different Alex Salmond. The tough political operator that we have come to know well has evolved a more conciliatory side – pledging to work to build consensus and trust. But more than that, it seems that Mr Salmond has grown in stature, almost as if he has grown into the post of First Minister and already eclipsing his immediate predecessor.