Stephen Flynn hints he will not launch leadership bid if Humza Yousaf resigns

STEPHEN Flynn has suggested he would not stand to be the SNP leader if Humza Yousaf were to resign.

During an appearance on BBC Radio 4's Today programme, Flynn was asked if he had plans to challenge for the leadership of the SNP if Humza Yousaf were to step down.

He said: “I have been asked this question previously the last time there was a leadership contest in the Scottish National Party, and I was very clear in my view that I believe that the party leader should have the ability to be the First Minister of Scotland.

READ MORE: Ash Regan says 'door is open' in letter to Humza Yousaf

“I have not been dissuaded from that view since I made those comments well over a year ago, but the most important thing for me here is to get on with the job of supporting the First Minister over the coming days as he fights back and he wins this vote of no confidence next week.”

Pressed about whether he would stand, Flynn added: “Of course, implicit in my answer is the fact that I believe that the party leader should have the ability to be First Minister of Scotland.

"As you and all your listeners know I am a Member of Parliament in Westminster, I do not have the ability to be the First Minister of Scotland, so I am sure people can read between the lines in that regard.”

READ MORE: Scottish Greens to back vote of no confidence in Humza Yousaf

It comes after Yousaf terminated the Bute House Agreement with the Scottish Greens on Thursday.

Following the announcement the Scottish Conservatives said they would be raising a vote of no confidence in the First Minister, which is expected to take place next week.

The situation leaves Yousaf fighting for his political life after the Scottish Greens said they would be backing the Tory motion.

Alba MSP Ash Regan has written a letter to Yousaf as her vote could prove decisive in saving his position as First Minister.