Alex Rowley has been named the interim leader of Scottish Labour after Kezia Dugdale’s shock resignation.
The Fife MSP takes the helm as the party gears up for a leadership contest, which is likely to be a showdown between Corbynites and centrists.
But the UK’s biggest union has called for Mr Rowley to remain in charge in the longer term as it warned against an immediate election.
Former deputy leader Mr Rowley, who is a keen supporter of Jeremy Corbyn and had a testy relationship with Ms Dugdale, is seen as potential candidate.
Ms Dugdale, who remains Lothians MSP, told colleagues she quit for personal reasons, adding the “party needs a new leader with fresh energy”.
But it has also been suggested she was “hounded out” by Corbyn supporters.
Alex Rowley, the interim leader of Scottish Labour said: “Under the leadership of Kezia Dugdale, the Scottish Labour Party is stronger and more united than it was when she took the job, we have a platform on which to build.
“On behalf of the party, I wish her well.”
The ruling body of Scottish Labour – the executive committee – meets on September 9, where it will outline the process for the upcoming contest.
Brian Roy, general secretary of Scottish Labour, said: “Over the coming weeks the Scottish Executive Committee of the Labour Party will decide the process and timetable for a leadership election.”
Unite has backed Mr Rowley to stay in charge for an extended period, as it urges the party “not to act in undue haste on any succession plan”.
Pat Rafferty, who is the union’s Scottish secretary, said: “There is no need to rush to a leadership election.
“Under Alex Rowley’s interim leadership we are confident that the voices of Scotland’s working people will be heard loud and clear at Holyrood.”
Neil Findlay, who is seen as Corbyn’s man in Scotland, has already ruled himself out of the leadership contest.
Other names in the frame are Richard Leonard, Anas Sarwar, Jackie Baillie, and Jenny Marra.
