John Swinney has said he is giving “active consideration” to standing to become the next leader of the SNP.

Speaking shortly after Humza Yousaf announced his decision to resign as leader and First Minister the former deputy first minister said he would think about over the coming days.

Swinney, a former SNP leader from 2000 to 2004, has been urged by SNP figures to stand which could prevent a leadership contest if others stand aside.

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Swinney said: “I’m giving very careful consideration to standing to be the leader of the SNP.

“I’ve been somewhat overwhelmed by the requests that have been made of me to do that with many, many messages from many colleagues across the party.

“So, I’m giving that issue very active consideration and it’s likely I’ll have more to say about that in the days to come.”

He added: “I’ve got lots of things to think about. There’s the whole question of my family and I have to make sure that I do the right thing by my family, they’re precious to me.

“I have to do the right thing by my party and by my country, so there’s lots to be thought about and I’ll give all of that consideration in the days to come.”

Swinney was deputy first minister under Nicola Sturgeon from 2014 to 2023 and also served as finance secretary for many years under Alex Salmond and Nicola Sturgeon.

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No-one has yet said they would stand to become the next leader and others could be waiting on a decision by Swinney before they make any public announcement.

Swinney taking on the role and becoming first minister could avoid a potentially divisive leadership election ahead of a UK General Election, which could further damage the party’s prospects.

Kate Forbes has not signalled her intentions and instead paid tribute to Yousaf.

She said: “As First Minister, Humza Yousaf cared passionately about Scotland. Few of us will forget his statesmanship and compassion on Gaza.

“He is an honourable man, who displayed dignity and humility today.

“I wish him and Nadia well with their impending new arrival in the summer.”