John Swinney and Kate Forbes Hold Talks Amid SNP Leadership Speculation

John Swinney and Kate Forbes, two prominent figures in the Scottish National Party (SNP), have held informal talks about the party's future leadership amid growing speculation over who will succeed Humza Yousaf as First Minister. The meeting took place at the Scottish Parliament on Tuesday, just hours after the SNP-Green alliance defeated a Labour motion of no confidence in Yousaf's government by a vote of 70 to 58.

While neither Swinney nor Forbes have officially declared their candidacy, both are widely seen as frontrunners to replace Yousaf. Swinney, the former deputy first minister, is being encouraged by senior party figures to put himself forward as a unity candidate who can stabilize the SNP after a turbulent period. Forbes, who narrowly lost to Yousaf in the 2023 leadership contest, is also considering another bid and has the backing of several party members.

The informal meeting between the two potential rivals has fueled speculation about a possible deal to avoid a divisive leadership contest. However, sources close to the talks described the meeting as "purely informal" and said no agreement was reached. Forbes did not rule out taking a top job in a Swinney-led cabinet, but her supporters argue that SNP members deserve a choice in the leadership election.

The SNP has announced a compressed timetable for the leadership race, with nominations opening on Monday and closing just one week later. If more than one candidate secures 100 nominations from party members, a ballot will be held from May 13 to May 27 to choose the new leader. Some have suggested that a deal could be reached to allow Swinney to become leader without a contest, but this has been met with resistance from those who want a competitive race.

Why this matters: The outcome of the SNP leadership contest will have significant implications for Scotland's future, including the push for independence and the country's relationship with the rest of the UK. The new leader will also face the challenge of uniting the party after a period of internal divisions and rebuilding public trust in the wake of Yousaf's resignation.

The leadership speculation comes as Yousaf acknowledged that ending the cooperation agreement with the Scottish Greens, known as the Bute House Agreement, had upset many within the SNP. However, he defended the decision as necessary for the party and the country. Yousaf also used his response to the no-confidence motion to highlight his government's achievements, while Scottish Greens co-leader Patrick Harvie praised Yousaf's "immense dignity" in speaking out for the people of Gaza.

Key Takeaways

• John Swinney and Kate Forbes held informal talks about SNP leadership succession.
• Swinney and Forbes are seen as frontrunners to replace outgoing First Minister Humza Yousaf.
• SNP has announced a compressed timetable for the leadership race, with nominations opening on Monday.
• The new leader will face challenges of uniting the party and rebuilding public trust.
• Yousaf defended ending the Bute House Agreement with the Scottish Greens as necessary.