The key numbers as the Scottish Parliament turns 25
The first Holyrood election took place on May 6, 1999.
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.As the Scottish Parliament turns 25, here are some of the key numbers linked to a quarter of a century of devolution:
356: The number of Bills which have passed since the Parliament opened in 1999 – 290 were Scottish Government Bills, 32 submitted by members, 22 private Bills, 10 from committees and two emergency Bills. Meanwhile, 53 pieces of legislation were either withdrawn or fell.
5.5 million: The total visitors who have walked through the door of the Scottish Parliament since the purpose-built building was opened at Holyrood in 2004.
170,000: The number of school pupils that have visited the building, from some 6,000 schools.
Six: The number of first ministers Scotland has had.
837: The number of sessions of First Minister’s Questions held since they were introduced in early 2000.
191,758: The total amount of written questions submitted by MSPs and answered by ministers.
4,709: The number of committee reports published by the 152 committees formed.
2,019: The amount of petitions submitted to the Parliament and considered by MSPs.
570,700: The number of cups of tea or coffee served in the Parliament cafe.
123,360: Pieces of Parliament shortbread which have been served across the estate.