Swinney calls for end to SNP divisions after ruling himself out as leader

Deputy first minister calls for party to unite and ‘anchor SNP in mainstream of Scottish politics’

John Swinney, Scotland’s deputy first minister and one of the SNP’s longest-serving senior figures, has called for the party to unite and focus on concerns of mainstream voters as he ruled himself out of the contest to replace Nicola Sturgeon.

Swinney, who is widely respected amongst the membership and was SNP leader 20 years ago, said the party needed “a fresh perspective” after Sturgeon’s shock resignation on Wednesday.

Continue reading…Deputy first minister calls for party to unite and ‘anchor SNP in mainstream of Scottish politics’UK politics live – latest news updatesJohn Swinney, Scotland’s deputy first minister and one of the SNP’s longest-serving senior figures, has called for the party to unite and focus on concerns of mainstream voters as he ruled himself out of the contest to replace Nicola Sturgeon.Swinney, who is widely respected amongst the membership and was SNP leader 20 years ago, said the party needed “a fresh perspective” after Sturgeon’s shock resignation on Wednesday. Continue reading…