The former finance secretary confirms she will not challenge John Swinney to be Scotland's next first minister.
It's been quite a day for John Swinney. From rumours of candidacy, to announcing a leadership bid, to apparently being given a free run at the top job. At 10:30 this morning, he stood in front of colleagues and supporters at the Grassmarket Community Project in Edinburgh and announced his intention to stand for leader of the Scottish National Party . In his speech, Swinney said he wants to build on the work of the Scottish government to 'unite the SNP and Scotland for independence'.
' He extended an olive branch to Kate Forbes, saying she would play a 'significant' role in his cabinet, if elected. 'I am no caretaker. I am no interim leader.' said Swinney. 'I am offering to to take the party through the Westminster election and beyond the 2026 elections - two contests I intend to win for the SNP and for Scotland.' He confidently referred to his 'formidable electoral track record'.
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
'SNP machine' set on John Swinney coronation, Kate Forbes allies claimKATE Forbes’s allies have said the “SNP establishment” is lined up against a potential leadership bid from the former finance secretary.
Read more »
SNP source calls for 'deal' between John Swinney and Kate ForbesAN SNP insider has called for a “deal to be struck” between John Swinney and Kate Forbes amid speculation that both could run for party…
Read more »
John Swinney and Kate Forbes latest SNP leader statementsTHE SNP is in a “different situation” this year following Humza Yousaf’s resignation said John Swinney as he considers leadership bid.
Read more »
Kate Forbes ally compares leadership rival John Swinney to Humza YousafEXCLUSIVE: Ivan McKee, a key ally of Kate Forbes, said the SNP should not be 'timid' in choosing its new leader and praised the former finance secretary as 'outstanding'.
Read more »
Kate Forbes ally warns SNP against 'continuity candidate' John SwinneyA KATE Forbes ally has claimed having John Swinney as SNP leader would lead to “more of the same” as he urged the party against clinging to…
Read more »
Kate Forbes and John Swinney hold 'secret talks' on SNP leadershipKATE Forbes and John Swinney have reportedly held secret talks about cutting a deal amid both of them being tipped to replace Humza Yousaf as SNP…
Read more »