JOHN Swinney is set to become the next first minister after rival Kate Forbes gave him a free run at the top job.
There will now be a "coronation" rather than a contest to decide the next leader of the country, with Swinney likely to take over next week.
The veteran Nationalist is expected to hand Forbes a senior Cabinet post after talks led to her pulling out of the SNP leadership race.
Former education secretary Swinney said he was making a "personal sacrifice" in stepping up as his wife Elizabeth Quigley has multiple sclerosis.
But he insisted he was the "strong" figure that could bring unity to his party and the country.
And he hit out at those who believe he will be a short-term fix, saying: "I'm no caretaker."
Swinney Nicola Sturgeon's deputy for nine years - is now certain to be first minister after Humza Yousaf's resignation.
The 60-year-old could be voted in next week after the SNP avoided a divisive internal election, with nominations closing on Monday Swinney did not want a contest and used his leadership launch speech in Edinburgh to reach out to Forbes. Within hours, she had announced she was not standing.
He said former finance secretary Forbes, who lost to Yousaf in last year's SNP leadership contest, would play a "significant part" in his team."
He said: "She is an intelligent, creative, thoughtful person who has much to contribute to our national life and if elected I will make sure that Kate is able to make that contribution.
This story is from the May 03, 2024 edition of Daily Record.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the May 03, 2024 edition of Daily Record.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
ALPetite for destruction
Scots ready to whip up a storm in rain-lashed Bavaria as phoney war ends
WE TURN UP... YOU GO DOWN
Hitman Fullkrug admits Germans are arrogant and insists Friday night is all about what THEY do, not what Scotland produce
McGINNING OF THE END
Kev: John was on way up as I went down at Hibs.. he'll go for years
SNAP DECISION
Liam: I want Ron picture but only Champs League with Celts will put me in the frame for Ireland starts
Grant's got the law on his side
Scot's legal eagle pal gives him mental tips for US Open charge
HAT'LL DO NICELY
Star joins locals in lederhosen and fancy headgear as they welcome national side
Shopkeeper in axe terror
Lout returned to store and pinched cans after being turned away earlier
I sing her to sleep but she prefers Take That to any of my music
NOT many pop stars would take kindly to their fans falling asleep to their back catalogue but for Olly Murs it’s a blessing.
He sat down ...and then he died
Coroner: Star rested on rock before collapse | One Show co-host in tribute to 'dear friend'
We're all thinking about you, Alan
Football world comes together to send best wishes to ill legend