Who will be Scotland's next leader as Humza Yousaf resigns

Humza Yousaf has announced that he is stepping down as Scotland's first minister after just over a year in charge.

The Scottish National Party is facing another leadership crisis, around 18 months since Nicola Sturgeon's shock resignation following a period of electoral dominance north of the border.

Mr Yousaf, who replaced Ms Sturgeon in the role, held a press conference today, announcing that he will step down as first minister, although he will stay on until a successor is elected.

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He has come under increasing pressure in recent days after he surprisingly ended a power-sharing agreement with the Scottish Green Party. That decision had seen him facing two votes of no confidence this week. Mr Yousaf became emotional in his speech, saying it had been an "honour" to lead his country.

So what happens now?

The outgoing first minister said he has asked the SNP's national secretary to start a leadership election as soon as possible and he will stay in post until a new leader is voted in.

The party's constitution says that a leadership candidate must have nominations from at least 100 party members from across 20 branches.

Who will stand?

The names being linked with a run for the top job in Scottish politics include John Swinney. He is a former party leader who was a trusted deputy of Ms Sturgeon during her time as first minister.

Kate Forbes is another likely contender. She was Mr Yousaf's closest contender in the race to replace Ms Sturgeon.

Once Mr Yousaf has formally submitted his resignation to the king, the Holyrood parliament will vote to choose its new first minister.

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