Angus Robertson rules himself out of SNP leadership race
Angus Robertson has said he will not stand to replace Nicola Sturgeon as leader of the SNP.
The constitution secretary said that as the father of two young children, the “time is not right” for him to stand.
Both health secretary Humza Yousaf and former minister Ash Regan have announced their decision to stand for the party leadership, with finance secretary Kate Forbes also expected to announce today that she will stand.
In a statement posted on Twitter, Robertson said: “Nicola Sturgeon has been a tremendous first minister, SNP leader, public servant and advocate of Scottish independence. It has been an honour to serve as her depute leader and as Scottish Government Cabinet Secretary for the Constitution, External Affairs and Culture. I am hugely grateful to her for all she has contributed and warmly wish her well.
“Since Nicola Sturgeon announced she is stepping down, I have been encouraged by many to consider running for the SNP leadership and to become first minister. It is a real privilege and honour for people to wish me to stand and I am very thankful for their trust.
“However, as the father of two very young children, the time is not right for me and my family to take on such a huge commitment.”
Robertson said he looked forward to working with the next SNP leader to deliver “progressive policies and economic success” for Scotland and independence for within the EU.
Speaking to Holyrood last month, Roberston said a vote for Scottish independence would automatically be a vote to rejoin the European Union.
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