Kate Forbes has ruled herself out of the SNP leadership contest and backed John Swinney.

It means Swinney, a former deputy first minister under Nicola Sturgeon, is likely to be unopposed and could be confirmed in the post by Monday when nominations close and be first minister as early as next week.

Forbes who narrowly lost out to Humza Yousaf in last year's contest, made her announcement hours after Swinney launched his leadership bid.

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The pair met on Tuesday, the day after Yousaf announced he was to resign.

Forbes said: "Those discussions on the future of the SNP and our vision for Scotland were both frank and constructive."

"What emerged was that we share a powerful common purpose for the country."

Her announcement ends the speculation she could be set to challenge for the post.

She added: "I have therefore weighed the decision whether or not to seek the leadership of the party with great care.

“Ultimately, I have concluded that the best way to deliver the urgent change Scotland needs is to join with John Swinney and advocate for that reform agenda within the Scottish government.

"I can therefore today announce that I will not be seeking nomination as the next SNP leader."

Swinney, in his speech earlier, praised Forbes’s abilities and talents and said there would be a “significant role” for her in a government led by him.

The deadline for nominations closes on Monday at noon. If no one else challenges Swinney will be confirmed as SNP leader.

Humza Yousaf will then formally resign as First Minister and the Scottish Parliament meet to select his successor.