Jack McConnell

First Minister from 2001 to 2007, McConnell used devolved powers for the smoking ban in enclosed public places, introduced in March 2006 ahead of England, and the Fresh Talent scheme to attract migrants to Scotland. His government's quiet competence after the turbulence of Dewar's death and Henry McLeish's resignation helped establish that the new institution could govern day to day. His Labour administration was narrowly defeated by the SNP in 2007, ending Labour's dominance of Scottish politics.