First Minister to attend the funeral of Pope Francis

First Minister of Scotland John Swinney will represent the country at the funeral of His Holiness Pope Francis. 

The First Minister will travel to Rome on Friday in advance of attending the funeral on Saturday alongside heads of state and government from around the world.  

First Minister John Swinney said:  

“His Holiness Pope Francis was a voice for peace, tolerance and reconciliation who had a natural ability to connect with people of all ages, nationalities and beliefs. On behalf of the people of Scotland, I am deeply honoured to attend the funeral of Pope Francis in Rome to express my sorrow, thanks and deep respect for the compassion, assurance and hope that he brought to so many.” 

Government representatives have been invited to attend the funeral of Pope Francis at the invitation of the Holy See, the central governing body of the Catholic Church and the Vatican City.  

The First Minister will travel to Rome from Scotland on Friday 25 April, returning on Saturday 26 April.  

Further details will be confirmed in due course.