Humza Yousaf resignation: Moray reaction from Labour and Liberal Democrats
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LEADING Labour and Liberal Democrat figures in Moray have reacted to news of Humza Yousaf’s resignation as First Minister.
Both James Hynam - Labour’s General Election candidate for Moray West, Nairn and Strathspey - and Neil Alexander - who is running for the Lib Dems - spoke after Mr Yousaf announced on Monday that he would be stepping aside.
MORE: Moray’s SNP MSP pays tribute to Humza Yousaf
Moray MP Douglas Ross: Humza Yousaf repeatedly failed this area
Mr Hynam said that the SNP has failed and called for an election to be held in Scotland.
“I want to wish Humza Yousaf all the best, regardless of our clear political differences,” he said.
“This is about far more than the First Minister, though. From failing to protect jobs at the University of the Highlands and Islands, failing to give Moray Council fair funding, and failing to increase education outcomes for our young people, it is clear that the SNP has lost its way.
“Let’s be clear though; this isn’t just about politics. I’m an NHS care worker; I see the effects of politicians’ decisions first hand.
“The SNP Government has failed to fix the broken system. After 17 years of SNP rule, our health and social care services are no better off. We don’t just need a change of First Minister; we need a change of Government.
“Just as it was wrong when the Tories forced the unelected Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak on us, it is entirely unacceptable for the SNP to impose another unelected First Minister on Scotland.
“Scottish Labour have proposed a Vote of No Confidence in the SNP-led Scottish Government - if passed, this may lead to an early election.
“I’m calling on Richard Lochhead, as well as all the MSPs for the Highlands and Islands, to support Scottish Labour’s motion. Don’t impose another unelected First Minister on us; let the people have a say.”
Moray’s Lib Dem leader Neil Alexander added said Scotland deserves better than either of two “nationalist” parties.
He said: “I disagreed a lot with Humza Yousaf politically, but this is no doubt very difficult for him and his family.
“I thank him for his service and wish him all the very best. He was very dignified in taking responsibility for the collapse of the SNP-Green Government
“However, I will add that the nasty politics of Conservative leader Douglas Ross gloating about removing him before he even announced his decision lacked compassion and class.
“The return of the nasty-Tory party is there for all to see, and as the First Minister said himself - it was the erosion of trust across the political spectrum which cost him his position, not Douglas Ross.
“Moray, and Scotland deserves better than the divisive nature of two nationalist parties. There should be a Scottish Election now so we can have our say on the future of our country.”
