John Finnie to stand down at 2021 Scottish Parliament election

Scottish Green MSP John Finnie has announced he plans to stand down at the next Scottish Parliament election.

Finnie was first elected in 2011 as an SNP member, but then left the party in opposition to its support for NATO membership, sitting as an independent between 2012 and 2014.

He was elected as a Scottish Green MSP on the Highlands and Islands list in the 2016 Scottish Parliament election.

But with the Scottish Greens now selecting candidates for the 2021 election, Finnie said he felt “the time is right to step aside and let others bring their energy and ideas to what is a demanding job”.

Finnie said: “It is an honour to serve the Highlands and Islands in the Scottish Parliament and I intend continuing to work hard until my last day in office.

“I’ve been involved in representative politics since being elected a Highland councillor in 2007 and enjoyed helping people, but I feel the time is right to step aside and let others bring their energy and ideas to what is a demanding job.

“Throughout my time in parliament, I’ve put my home region of the Highlands and Islands and my constituents at the forefront of my work.

"Driven by my interest in social and environmental justice, I have been pleased to secure a number of concessions and legislative changes to improve the lives of people in the region.

“At this time, I’m focused on working with others to secure the passage of my member’s bill giving children equal protection from assault and hope to see it become law in the near future.

“The climate emergency our planet is facing means that, more than ever, Green policies are required. I know there are others who can ensure they are promoted, and delivered, for my home, the Highlands and islands of Scotland.

"Meanwhile, I look forward to having more time to spend with my family.”