SNP MSP Michelle Thomson to stand down

Michelle Thomson has confirmed she will stand down at the 2026 election.

The SNP politician said a belief in Scottish independence had been her "guiding star" but she will not run for Holyrood again.

A former MP, Thomson has been the MSP for the Falkirk East constituency for 2021 and backed Kate Forbes in the 2023 leadership contest that followed Nicola Sturgeon's resignation.

She has now told local branch members that she will not put her name forward for candidacy in 2026.

In an email, Thomson wrote: "I have always believed that independence is the normal state of affairs for any country and this has been my guiding star since joining the SNP when I was at school.

"During my time as an MP, and now as an MSP, the evidence has been overwhelming that successive Westminster governments of all colours consistently demonstrate they do not have the best interests of the people of Scotland at heart.

"I want all responsibilities and the supporting powers to reside in our parliament: the Scottish Parliament. To this end I will continue, as we all must do, to inform, persuade and build the confidence of our fellow citizens.

"However, for some time now I have been under considerable pressure in my personal life with caring responsibilities. I have relied on the support of family and friends but, for the time being, my personal responsibilities must take precedence.

"I am buoyed by the range of experienced and committed candidates who have put their name forward and who can continue to ensure Falkirk East is represented by an independence-supporting candidate. Notification of my decision now allows for a selection process that meets your needs as committed activists."

Thomson's announcement comes hours after fellow SNP MSP Joe FitzPatrick confirmed he will stand down in 2026.

A former professional musician and businesswoman, Thomson moved MP colleagues to tears in 2016 when she disclosed that she had been raped as a teenager.

In a speech marking UN International Day For The Elimination Of Violence Against Women, Thomson said: "I'm not a victim, I'm a survivor."

As deputy convenor of Holyrood's Economy and Fair Work Committee she has championed women in business and in the chamber she has raised issues around women's equality, regional growth deals and the culture sector.

She was named Backbencher of the Year at the Holyrood Garden Party & Political Awards in 2024.

Thomson said: "It has been the greatest honour of my life to represent all the people who live in the constituency and to support them in any way possible. I hope that I have managed to shape our Scottish Parliament both as a parliamentarian and as a politician.

"I give grateful thanks to the members of my team who have supported me so well and to colleagues, both from Westminster and Holyrood, with whom I have shared a journey over the past 10 years.

"I intend to continue to use my experiences to build a better Scotland."

Commenting on the news, First Minister John Swinney said: "I am very sorry to hear Michelle Thomson is standing down at the next election. She is a valued colleague and I wish her well in all that lies ahead."