First Minister has announced that he will
stand down.
Speaking at a news conference at the First Minister's official
residence in Bute House, Edinburgh, Mr Yousaf said:
“After spending the weekend reflecting on what is best for the
government and country I lead, I have concluded that repairing
our relationships across the political divide can only be done
with someone else at the helm.
“I intend to stand down as Party Leader. I will continue as First
Minister until my successor has been elected, particularly as the
Parliament will be debating some incredibly important legislation
in the coming days and weeks.
“I cannot tell you what an honour it is being the First Minister
of the country I love, the country I am raising my family in, and
the only country I will ever call home. I have had the honour of
serving in Government for almost 12 years in a variety of roles.
“Although I am sad that my time as First Minister is ending, I am
so grateful and blessed for having the opportunity so few are
afforded – to lead my country, and who could ask for a better
country to lead than Scotland.”
The First Minister's official statement will be available shortly
at Publications - gov.scot
(www.gov.scot)
Background
Arrangements for the nomination, appointment and resignation of a
First Minister are set out in sections 45 and 46 of the Scotland Act 1998. The
Standing Orders of the Scottish Parliament, at Rule 4.1 and Rule 11.10, detail the role
of MSPs in nominating a fellow Member to the King for
appointment.
