Mr Swinney is now likely to become Scotland’s next first minister.
SNP activist Graeme McCormick has ended his bid to become the next leader of the party and has given his full support to John Swinney, who is now the only official candidate.
Mr McCormick told the PA news agency that he “met the thresholds for party rules”, but “after a lengthy and fruitful conversation” with Mr Swinney he decided to instead give his full support to him. “This is a fresh start for our members and our politicians, and I’m sure that John’s determination to deliver independence will be rewarded at the forthcoming general election.
Mr McCormick had told journalists at the weekend that he expected to secure the 100 nominations needed from 20 branches, but this had yet to be officially confirmed.
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