Alex Salmond

Leader of the SNP and MP for Banff & Buchan.

Talented and alert, Alex Salmond offers acerbic opposition to the Conservatives and the presently dominant Scottish Labour Party. He has positioned his party clearly on the Left of the politcal spectrum - shedding any lingering suggestion that the Nationalists might be a movement rather than a political party. Confronting opposition from a few - including Gordon Wilson, his predecessor as leader - Salmond has committed the SNP to working flat-out for a Double Yes in the referendum, arguing that once Scots gain a taste of political power they will eventually opt for full independence. Salmond pays little overt attention to cultural nationalism - you'll never see him in a kilt. His arguments are all based upon economic and social causes.

Born in 1954 in Linlithgow and educated at the local Academy. He graduated from St. Andrews University in economics and history and joined the civil service. He became a member of the SNP in 1973 and was elevated to the NEC in 1981. At the General Election of 1987 Salmond won Banff & Buchan from the Tories while also becoming a Deputy Leader of the party. Three years later he became Leader of the SNP.

In addition to his role as party leader Salmond is the SNP's spokesman on the treasury, energy, fisheries and the constitution.