John Swinney wins SNP leadership unopposed

Key Facts

In a speech in Glasgow, Mr Swinney, 60, told supporters: "Today is the beginning of a new chapter in our party’s history - a chapter that will be about uniting, coming together and dedicating ourselves the service of Scotland."
John Swinney says the SNP is ‘coming back together again’ He said he did not intend to reinstate the power-sharing Bute House Agreement with the Scottish Greens – the termination of which led to Mr Yousaf’s resignation – and would aim to lead a “moderate centre-left” minority government.
Mr Swinney, who last year stepped down from government after 16 years in SNP cabinets, said he was “physically and mentally rested” and ready for the challenge ahead.
Patrick Harvie, co-leader of the Scottish Greens, said: “Mr Swinney knows that if he is to have our support then it must be on the basis of progressive policies that help us to tackle the climate crisis and build a fairer and more equal future.”