Alex Salmond sworn in as First Minister

SNP leader Alex Salmond was today sworn in to the role of First Minister a day after his re-election by MSPs.

The Aberdeenshire East representative, pictured, took three oaths at the Court of Session in Edinburgh, in a brief ceremony overseen by 15 judges, including the Lord President.

He was asked to swear allegiance to the Queen before signing a parchment, watched by outgoing Lord Advocate Elish Angiolini.

The procedure, in a small, wood-panelled court room next to the historic Parliament Hall, was held as Mr Salmond prepares to unveil his cabinet secretaries for the next Scottish Government.

He has already confirmed that Richard Lochhead will be re-appointed to the rural affairs brief.

Other senior ministers in the last government include Finance Secretary John Swinney, Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon, Education Secretary Michael Russell and Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill.

While their positions are not confirmed, Mr Salmond campaigned in the Scottish election on the record of his team.

Junior ministers are expected to be unveiled on Friday.

His preferred line-up will then be subject to a vote at the Scottish Parliament.

In Holyrood yesterday, Mr Salmond was elected unopposed with 68 votes and 57 abstentions.