| Joe Hendry | |
|---|---|
| |
| Hendry campaigning in 2024 | |
| Minister for Culture and Sport | |
| Assumed office 3 August 2024 | |
| Prime Minister | Stiùbhard Jones-Lìosach Ruaraidh MacDonald |
| Preceded by | David Linden |
| Minister for Schools | |
| In office 31st May 2019 – 3 August 2024 | |
| Preceded by | Jamie Stone |
| Succeeded by | Amy Callaghan |
| Member of Parliament for Edinburgh North West | |
| Assumed office 31 June 2017 | |
| Preceded by | Himself |
| In office 1 March 2013 – 1 June 2017 | |
| Preceded by | John Hein |
| Succeeded by | Himself |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 1 May, 1988 Edinburgh, Scotland |
| Political party | Progressive (2003-2017; 2018-present) Independent (2017-2018) |
Joe Hendry (born 1 May 1988) is a Scottish politician who has served as Minister for Culture and Sport since 2024. Previously he served as a Minister for Schools. As a member of the Progressives he has been a MP since the 2013 election. Hendry was a candidate in the 2024 Progressive leadership election but withdrew.
Early life[]
Hendry was born in 1988 in Edinburgh. Hendry initially wanted to become a professional wrestler before deciding to become a politician like his uncle, Drew Hendry. Hendry achieved a diploma in Business in 2012.
Political Career[]
Hendry joined the Progressives in 2003 to campaign for them in that years local elections. Hendry gained attraction for being the youngest campaigner in that years election. In 2005, Hendry reportedly considered defecting to the Liberals but decided against it.
Hendry was selected as a parliamentary candidate for Edinburgh North West in 2012 amist speculation of an early election. Hendry was seen as unlikely to be elected due to the Libertarians 13,000 vote majority. Hendry surprised odds and won the seat with a 30 vote majority. Hendry gained popularity throughout his constituency for being visible and hard working. Hendry was re-elected in 2015 with a 3,000 vote majority. Hendry would gain national recognition after being made Chair of the Education committee in 2016. In 2017, Hendry publically stated he wouldn't support a coalition with the Greens due to the party being in the Galloway governments. After the Progressives entered a Coalition with the Greens, Hendry decided to leave the Progressive Party and opted to resign as an MP and successfully was re-elected in a by-election as an Independent. Hendry later re-joined the party on advice that he would be given a ministerial job in the future.
Hendry's campaign logo in the 2024 leadership election
Hendry ran in the 2024 Progressive leadership elections but withdrew due to lack of support.
Ministerial Career[]
Minister for Schools (2019-2024)[]
Hendry was appointed Minister for Schools in 2019 in a shock move. Hendry's appointment was unexpected due to it being widely regarded he would remain as Chair of the Education committee. During his tenure Hendry proposed the School reform program which would give every school an extra £10,000 per year. The plan was approved unanimously with little opposition. Hendry also began the process of removing RAAC concrete in every school.
Minister for Culture and Sport (2024-present)[]
In 2024, Hendry was made Minister for Culture and Sport following the resignation of David Linden over the Olympic doping scandal. Hendry has continued the governments decision to dispute the ban of Scotland in the Olympic and Paralympic games. Hendry has also suggested legal action over the ban.
Personal life[]
Hendry is a supporter of Celtic FC. Hendry also has said he enjoys Wrestling and Boxing.