Humza Yousaf resigns - live: Former SNP leader John Swinney mulls bid to become Scotland’s next first minister

Humza Yousaf has quit as Scottish first minister in a sensational move to avoid being ousted by his opposition in a no confidence vote.

Mr Yousaf announced he was stepping down during an address at Bute House, Edinburgh, at midday today, just days before a vote on his leadership was expected.

The 39-year-old said: “After spending the weekend reflecting on what is best for my party, for the government and for the country I lead I have concluded that repairing our relationship across the political divide can only be done with someone else at the helm.

“I have therefore informed the SNP’s national secretary of my intention to stand down as party leader and asks that she commences a leadership contest for my replacement as soon as possible.

Former SNP leader John Swinney is considering becoming Scotland’s next first minister after Humza Yousaf quit the role in an emotional speech at midday.

Mr Swinney, 60, who led the party between 2000 and 2004 and stood down after Nicola Sturgeon’s resignation last year, said he was “actively considering” the role of Scottish first minister.

“I’ve been somewhat overwhelmed by the requests that have been made for me to do that, with many, many messages from many colleagues across the party. So I’m giving that issue very active consideration,” he told Sky News.

MSP and potential successor to Humza Yousaf has said the former first minister cared “passionately” about Scotland and showed compassion for Gaza.

Writing on X, she said: “As first minister Humza Yousaf cared passionately about Scotland. Few of us will forget his statesmanship and compassion on Gaza.

“He is an honourable man, who displayed dignity and humility today. I wish him and Nadia well with their impending new arrival in the summer.”

Former first minister Nicola Sturgeon said Humza Yousef conducted himself with “grace” and she was proud to call him a friend.

Writing on X, Sturgeon said: “I know how big a privilege being First Minister is, but also the toll it can take. I also know what a wrench it is to step aside, even when sure it is the right thing to do.

“Humza has conducted himself with grace, dignity and integrity - both as FM and in the manner of his leaving. I am and always will be proud to call him a friend.”

The UK Government will work with Humza Yousaf’s successor to deliver on “the real issues that matter to people”, Downing Street has said.

Reacting to the first minister’s resignation, the prime minister’s official spokesman said: “When the first minister came to office he and the prime minister talked about wanting to work together to focus on the real issues that matter to people.

“I haven’t, obviously, seen the news that you’ve reported on, but clearly if that’s the case, the UK Government will work with the new administration to the same end, which is working together to deliver for people in Scotland, whether it’s growing the economy, delivering jobs, enhancing energy security.

“For most people, they don’t want to be distracted by the ins and outs of politics, they want to see their governments working together to deliver on their priorities.”