First Minister’s position ‘became utterly untenable’, says Orkney’s MSP

Humza Yousaf has “lurched from one crisis to the next”, Orkney’s MSP has said this afternoon, after the First Minister announced his resignation.

In a press conference, Mr Yousaf said that “repairing our relationship across the political divide” could only be achieved with a new SNP leader in post.

He said he intends to stay in post as First Minister until a successor is appointed.

Responding to the news, Liam McArthur said: “Since taking over from Nicola Sturgeon as First Minister last year, Humza Yousaf has lurched from one crisis to the next.

“Over recent days, however, his position has become entirely untenable.

“His decision to step down, therefore, is the right one but it leaves both his party and the government divided and in disarray.

“Wherever you look, from health and education to transport, the environment and wider economy the consequences of that disarray and lack of focus over many years are to be found.