Humza Yousaf formally resigns as Scotland's first minister

Image source, PA Media

Humza Yousaf has signed a letter to the King tendering his resignation as Scotland's first minister after John Swinney was elected as the SNP's new leader.

Mr Swinney, 60, is expected to become first minister later.

The former deputy first minister has pledged to write a "new chapter" in the party's history.

Mr Yousaf last week said he "paid the price" for the way he ended the power-sharing deal with the Scottish Greens.

In his letter to King Charles, the Glasgow Pollok MSP said his resignation would take effect from the start of parliamentary business on Tuesday.

Mr Yousaf said it had been a pleasure to serve the King and the people of Scotland as first minister.

"Throughout my time as first minister, I have been most grateful for your counsel and the kindness you have shown to both Nadia and I," he added.

Mr Yousaf was sworn in as Nicola Sturgeon's successor last March after a narrow win over ex-finance secretary Kate Forbes in the SNP leadership contest.

During his first year in the post and he faced challenges ranging from the police investigation into SNP finances to ex-health secretary Michael Matheson's £11,000 data bill.

The Green-led deposit return scheme and the highly protected marine areas scheme were both ditched. The Scottish government also lost a court battle with the UK government over its flagship gender recognition reforms, which led to the legislation being shelved.

Mr Yousaf's leadership came to an end after he scrapped the power-sharing Bute House Agreement with the Scottish Greens, which left the SNP with a minority in parliament.

Facing motions of no confidence in him and his government, Mr Yousaf confirmed he was standing down last Monday.

In his resignation speech, he said he had "clearly underestimated" the hurt he had caused the Greens by ending the agreement.

John Swinney was the only candidate to replace Mr Yousaf as new SNP leader.

The Perthshire North MSP, who previously led the SNP between 2000 and 2004, told supporters on Monday that the party In a had been through a "rough time".

He said he did not intend to reinstate the power-sharing agreement with the Scottish Greens and would aim to lead a "moderate centre-left" minority government.