Scottish Greens issue warning to the next first minister

The Scottish Greens have issued a warning to the next first minister not to “ever take them or your political allies for granted”. 

In a lengthy statement, co-leader Patrick Harvie said that Humza Yousaf “was right to resign” as first minister after bringing an end to the Bute House Agreement, which he said left Yousaf’s position “no longer tenable”. 

Harvie gave a stern warning for the next first minister: “To the next first minister. Trust matters, integrity matters, values matter. Do not ever take them or your political allies for granted. The country expects, demands, and deserves better.” 

He said that Yousaf had “let down” the majority of Scottish Green and SNP members who approved the agreement and said his decision to end it “jeopardised the progressive policy programme that both parties had committed to and were working to deliver”.   

Looking to the future, Harvie acknowledged the SNP’s “right” to form a minority government and said his party has a “long track record” of working with opposition parties and will do so with a first minister “who shares our progressive values and who can secure our confidence”.  

Harvie said: “This is a pivotal moment for our country, and our politics must live up to the challenges we face and hold true to our values.  

“All parties have a responsibility for what happens next, and the kind of country we build. The Scottish Greens will play our part, as we always have done. 

“Important work is already underway on a range of issues, from tenants rights to transforming the way we heat homes and buildings. It is essential that work continues.  

“We will reflect on what has happened and do everything that we can to ensure that people and planet remain at the heart of our politics. 

“Finally, to the next first minister. Trust matters, integrity matters, values matter. Do not ever take them or your political allies for granted. The country expects, demands, and deserves better.”