Kate Forbes backs John Swinney as she confirms she is not standing for SNP leadership

Kate Forbes has confirmed she is not standing for the leadership of the SNP and is instead backing John Swinney for the top job.

Following “frank and constructive” discussions between the pair, Forbes said they shared a “powerful common purpose for the country”.

She said Swinney was committed to returning to “governing from the mainstream” and also welcomed his pledge to “ensure internal respect for robust and divergent debate” within the SNP.

This announcement clears the way for Swinney to become the next first minister, with no other MSPs thought to be considering a bid.

Forbes said: “Ultimately, I have concluded that the best way to deliver the urgent change Scotland needs is to join with John Swinney and advocate for that reform agenda within the Scottish Government.

“I can therefore today announce that I will not be seeking nomination as the next SNP leader.

“John will therefore have my support and endorsement in any campaign to follow.”

During the launch of his leadership bid on Thursday morning, Swinney confirmed Forbes would be offered a “significant" role in his government.

However he refused to say precisely what the role would be.

Forbes was previously finance secretary under Nicola Sturgeon, while Swinney was deputy first minister.

The Scottish Tories have accused Swinney and Forbes of making a “shady backroom deal”.

Douglas Ross said: “Kate Forbes famously warned that ‘continuity won’t cut it’ when it came to Humza Yousaf, yet she’s now urging the SNP to go back to the future by imposing John Swinney – a failed former leader, tied at the hip to Nicola Sturgeon – as first minister.”

Labour have reiterated their calls for an early Holyrood election. Anas Sarwar said: “The people of Scotland are crying out for change – but all the SNP is offering them is yesterday’s man in John Swinney.”