Race to replace Humza Yousaf as Scotland’s first minister begins

Good morning and welcome to our live coverage, as the race to replace Humza Yousaf as Scotland’s first minister and SNP leader gets under way.

As a reminder, Yousaf announced his resignation yesterday, saying he had “clearly underestimated” the hurt caused by his decision to end a power-sharing agreement with the Scottish Greens.

The move sparked two votes of no confidence, which he was at risk of losing.

Former deputy first minister John Swinney quickly emerged as the frontrunner to succeed Yousaf, having received the backing of several senior SNP figures, including the party’s Westminster leader, Stephen Flynn.

Kate Forbes, who Yousaf narrowly defeated in the leadership race barely a year ago, was also talked of as a contender.

This story is expected to rumble on throughout the day, so stay with us as we bring you the latest developments and analysis.

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