An SNP MSP has announced plans to stand for depute leader of the party following Angus Robertson’s resignation.
James Dornan, who represents Glasgow Cathcart, tweeted: “I would like to announce that I will be seeking nominations for the position of Depute Leader for the Scottish National Party, when the process commences.”
He is the first SNP member to publicly announce plans to stand for the role since Mr Robertson stood down on Saturday, eight months after losing his seat in the snap general election.
As of February 5th 2018, I would like to announce that I will be seeking nominations for the position of Depute Leader for the Scottish National Party, when the process commences.
— James Dornan SNP (@glasgowcathcart) February 5, 2018
Mr Dornan, a former Glasgow City councillor, was elected to the Scottish Parliament in 2011 and is the convener of Holyrood’s Education and Skills Committee.
Former Moray MSP Mr Robertson resigned in a letter to Nicola Sturgeon on Saturday, saying he wished to pursue “new career opportunities”.
Thanks to all colleagues and constituents over 17 years of public life. It's been a tremendous honour to serve as deputy of @NicolaSturgeon and help transform Scottish politics. Look forward to new opportunities but will always be there to help Scotland reach its full potential. pic.twitter.com/S6qznishFe
— Angus Robertson (@AngusRobertson) February 3, 2018
He was elected to the position in October 2016 succeeding Stewart Hosie, who quit the role following claims about his personal life.
SNP leader and First Minister Ms Sturgeon said Mr Robertson was “outstanding” as depute leader and said she hoped to he would return to frontline politics in future.
Thank you @AngusRobertson – you have been an outstanding Deputy Leader of @theSNP and a huge support to me personally. You should be very proud of your enormous contribution to our Party’s success. I wish you well and hope to see you back in frontline politics in the future. https://t.co/8F3lACFe1o
— Nicola Sturgeon (@NicolaSturgeon) February 3, 2018
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