John Swinney could become Scotland’s first minister as early as next week after the woman who would have been his main rival for the job announced she will not be running.
It comes after a week of drama at Holyrood, sparked by Mr Yousaf announcing last Thursday that he had terminated the powersharing agreement the SNP had with the Scottish Greens.Kate Forbes backed John Swinney for the SNP leadership as she ruled out a run for the top job herself While Ms Forbes had run against Mr Yousaf for the leadership last year, she has now given her backing to former deputy first minister Mr Swinney.
Along with the support of Ms Forbes, Mr Swinney has also won the backing of key SNP figures including Westminster leader Stephen Flynn, Health Secretary Neil Gray and Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth, meaning it seems almost certain he will become the new SNP leader without a contest being held. “My message is crisp and simple – I am stepping forward to bring the SNP together, deliver economic growth and social justice, to deliver the very best future for everyone in a modern, dynamic, diverse Scotland.”He also told supporters: “I want to unite the SNP and unite Scotland for independence,” as he conceded the party is “not as cohesive as it needs to be”.
“I believe I have the experience, the skills and I command the trust and the confidence of people across this country.”