Former Moray MP Angus Robertson rules himself out of SNP leadership contest

ANGUS Robertson, former MP for Moray, has ruled himself out of the race to succeed Nicola Sturgeon.

Mr Robertson, who represented Moray at Westminster from 2001-2017, was the bookies' favourite to succeed the First Minister but confirmed his decision not to run in a social media post this morning.

His statement read: "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.

"I look forward to working with the next SNP leader and First Minister to deliver progressive policies and economic success for Scotland, and help secure Scottish independence within the European Union."

Mr Robertson now joins Keith Brown, Neil Gray and Mairi McAllan in ruling himself out.

At the time of writing only Humza Yousaf, Ash Regan and Kate Forbes have announced their intentions to stand for the role.

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