SNP MSP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar, Alasdair Allan, has congratulated party leader John Swinney on being nominated as Scotland’s First Minister, the seventh holder of office since the Scottish Parliament was reconvened in 1999. In his acceptance speech, Mr Swinney announced irradiating child poverty would be his top priority and that he intended to be a First Minister for all.

Following this afternoon’s vote, Mr Swinney’s name will be submitted to the King, with his official swearing-in ceremony expected to take place tomorrow at the Court of Session in Edinburgh.

Alasdair Allan commented:

“I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate John on his election, both leader of the Scottish National Party and now his nomination as Scotland’s First Minister.

“I have known John since long before were elected as MSPs; indeed, since before the Scottish Parliament was reconvened. I know him to be a man of deep integrity with a phenomenal work ethic. I am confident he will serve the Office of First Minister, the country, and the cause of independence well. I wish him the very best.

“Of course, today provided our outgoing First Minister, Humza Yousaf, with the chance to give a farewell speech as he takes up his seat on the back benches. It is clear how much our party will miss his presence as First Minister. He has made a significant contribution to modern Scotland. I believe his closing remarks, calling for kindness in politics, were apt and I hope to seem them observed across the chamber as we go forward.

“Ultimately, John’s speech in Holyrood today was characteristic of the man he is. He chose to emphasise unity and building consensus in Parliament by reaching out across the political divide. Today represents a new start for the SNP and the Scottish Government.”