John Swinney could become first minister unopposed as rival rules out campaign

PA Media: Video

Updated 2 May 2024 at 6:15 am

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. Hours after Mr Swinney confirmed he is standing to succeed Humza Yousaf as SNP leader and first minister, former Holyrood finance secretary Kate Forbes issued a statement saying she will not run against him. Nominations for the position do not close until Monday, but Ms Forbes’s decision could pave the way for Mr Swinney to replace Mr Yousaf unopposed.

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