BREAKING: Kate Forbes will NOT run to be First Minister, instead she backs John Swinney
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
Kate Forbes has chosen not to run to become the next First Minister of Scotland and instead is backing John Swinney, apparently accepting his offer of a “significant” role in government.
Ms Forbes was the public’s hot favourite but Mr Swinney enjoyed more support within the SNP. It is similar to the deal that saw Alex Salmond returned as leader in 2004 with Nicola Sturgeon as his deputy appears to have been done.
There is no word yet on what role Ms Forbes would have in government but there had been mounting calls to “move heaven and earth” to get her back in the cabinet as she is seen as highly capable.
The move is therefore likely to be a coronation for Mr Swinney who has managed to halt another potentially damaging leadership contest that proved so divisive and sparked a loss of confidence and trust in the party.
The ghosts of that campaign still have not been laid to rest as Ms Forbes invoked the lack of toleration for any views outside the official party line in explaining her reasons for not running.
“I have listened very carefully to the vision John Swinney set out this morning for Scotland,” she said. “I welcome, and embrace, his commitment to ensure internal respect for robust and divergent debate in the party, which is the lifeblood of any democratic institution like the SNP.
“I was also greatly heartened by his drive to restore a sense of courtesy and dignity to the way we conduct ourselves as a party and as a Parliament. If we want to rewin the trust of the people, tone and language matter in the way we conduct ourselves.”
Ms Forbes also discussed the “future of the SNP and our vision for Scotland were both frank and constructive”, saying common ground was established.
She said: “What emerged was that we share a powerful common purpose for the country. That includes a passion to revitalise our party, reach out to those who feel disempowered and reinvigorate the independence movement.
“It also includes an understanding that economic growth and tackling poverty must again be key priorities, and that a just transition to ‘net zero’ must work with, and not against, our communities and businesses.
“But more than that, John is clear that he is determined to return the SNP to governing from the mainstream. Competent, candid government earning the trust of the people.
“That was the vision I offered in the last leadership contest, and is evidently demanded by the Scottish public. I have therefore weighed the decision whether or not to seek the leadership of the party with great care.
“Ultimately, I have concluded that the best way to deliver the urgent change Scotland needs is to join with John Swinney and advocate for that reform agenda within the Scottish Government.
“I can therefore today announce that I will not be seeking nomination as the next SNP leader. John will therefore have my support and endorsement in any campaign to follow.”
