SNP MPs have started putting their names forward in the contest to become the party’s new leader at Westminster.
The battle will finish by Wednesday evening after a proposal from Stewart Hosie, currently acting leader following Angus Robertson’s election defeat, and Pete Wishart, the acting chief whip after Mike Weir lost in Angus, to draw out the process over several weeks was defeated in an informal group meeting on Monday.
Mr Wishart told The Courier on Monday that he was “seriously considering” running for the job. He added that whoever takes over the role should have experience in the Commons.
Mr Hosie has ruled himself out and the only other MP not to be part of the 2015 intake is the colourful Angus MacNeil.
Ian Blackford is seen as the front runner and has formally confirmed he will stand.
I can confirm that I will be a candidate for SNP group leader at Westminster. As it is an internal election I will make no further comment.
— Ian Blackford (@IanBlackfordMP) June 12, 2017
Joanna Cherry, the party’s justice spokeswoman, has also put her name in the frame but her brash approach is seen as a divisive within certain sections of the SNP.
Happy to confirm that today I shall seek nomination as @theSNP Westminster group leader
— Joanna Cherry QC MP (@joannaccherry) June 13, 2017
Tommy Sheppard, the left-wing Edinurgh East MP who was defeated in his bid to become depute leader of the part last year, also announced he would be standing for the role.
He received the backing of The Thick Of It actor and comedian, Chris Addison
You go, Tommy! x
— Chris Addison (@mrchrisaddison) June 12, 2017
Drew Hendry, a former leader of Highland Council, has also decided to run.
Delighted to announce that I am seeking the support of my @theSNP MP colleagues for selection as their Westminster group leader
— Drew Hendry MP (@drewhendrySNP) June 12, 2017
North East Fife MP Stephen Gethins, the party’s Europe spokesman, has ruled himself out for family reasons.
He became a father for the second time during the election campaign and is now favourite to step up and replace Alex Salmond as foreign affairs spokesman.
Aberdeen North MP Kirsty Blackman put her name forward to replace Dundee East MP Mr Hosie as group deputy leader.
He has put himself forward for reselection, however.
I'm delighted to announce I have submitted my nomination for re-election as Depute Leader of @theSNP Westminster Group of MPs.
— Stewart Hosie MP (@StewartHosieSNP) June 13, 2017
Highly rated Hannah Bardell was also being talked about but made no formal statement at the meeting.
A party spokesman said: “Nominations will open to MPs on Tuesday morning, with the election of the new group leader to be announced on Wednesday evening.”
