MSPs were sworn in at Holyrood today as the Scottish Parliament begins a new term.

As leader of the largest party, the SNP, John Swinney will be first to swear his allegiance to the Charles Windsor, followed by other party leaders.

Republican MSPs will also be forced to make the oath, though in previous years many have chosen to make clear they do it under protest.

After the arcane formalities are taken care of, the 129 MSPs will face their first task: electing a presiding officer.

Four MSPs have thrown their hat into the ring for the role, former deputy presiding officer and Lib Dem MSP Liam McArthur, and three SNP members Kenny Gibson, Stuart McMillan and Clare Haughey.

At a hustings held for the role on Wednesday, Mr Gibson described Holyrood as “dull” and, hinting at his hopes for a change in style from the chair, he told colleagues: “It can be a place which is not the most exciting environment, and I do think we need to do more to liven it up.”