FORMER Scottish deputy first minister John Swinney was announced as the new SNP leader today after no challenger for the position of first minister came forward.

His accession follows the resignation of previous incumbent Humza Yousaf, who faced confidence votes last week after he ended his party’s Holyrood partnership with the Scottish Greens.

Posting on social media, Mr Swinney said he was “deeply honoured.”

He needs to win the backing of MSPs in a vote before becoming the country’s seventh first minister.

Scottish Green co-leader Patrick Harvie warned Mr Swinney that if he wished to win back the support of his party, he “must remain committed to progressive policies that tackle the climate crisis and inequality.”

“Scotland needs a period of stable government,” Mr Harvie added.

“The next Scottish government will face an important choice. Will they offer a progressive vision for Scotland’s future or will they retreat toward the tepid middle ground, which would force them to rely on the Tories and other pro-union parties?

“Scottish Green MSPs will meet to discuss our approach to the votes taking place this week.”

Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar said: “John Swinney’s coronation is entirely about managing the SNP, rather than running our country and delivering for Scotland.

“At a time when Scotland is crying out for change, the SNP is offering more of the same.

“John Swinney has been at the heart of this incompetent government for 17 years and at the heart of the SNP for 40 years.

“This is a stitch-up by a chaotic and dysfunctional party that is more interested in protecting its own interests than serving the interests of the people of Scotland.”