Scottish Labour leader Kezia Dugdale has found love, with a Fife SNP MSP.
Ms Dugdale, 35, has confirmed she has been dating Mid Fife and Glenrothes MSP Jenny Gilruth, 32, since March.
The couple became friends during a cross-party politics trip to the States last summer, but romance only flourished earlier this year.
In a joint statement, the couple said: “We don’t consider this to be ‘news’ – but we appreciate others might and we want to go about our daily lives normally.
“We would like to thank our friends, family and colleagues for their kindness over the past few months and for their love and support.
“We’d politely ask that our privacy is respected because while we are both politicians, we are also human beings – in a new relationship, which we cherish.”
Ms Dugdale split from her long term partner Louise Riddell last December, only five months after they announced their engagement.
Ms Gilruth is a former teacher who was elected to the Scottish Parliament for the SNP in May 2016.
The news brought congratulations from fellow politicians.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon tweeted: “So love really does conquer all,” as she wished every happiness to the couple.
John Swinney added: “Love definitely knows no bounds,” while NE Fife MP Stephen Gethins added: “This is lovely news…love overcomes.”
