Swinney promises ‘a new chapter’ as he takes over as leader of Scottish Nationalists

Newly elected leader of the Scottish National Party John Swinney delivers his acceptance speech at Advanced Research Centre, Glasgow University, after he was confirmed as the SNP's new leader. Photo: Jane Barlow/PA Wire

Muvija M

Scottish National Party (SNP) veteran John Swinney was elected as its new leader yesterday and is set to replace Humza Yousaf as Scotland’s first minister after he emerged as the sole contender in the contest to pick a new premier.

Mr Swinney’s key challenge will be to halt the slide in the SNP’s popularity after a string of scandals and political missteps, while keeping alive its ultimate goal of winning independence from the United Kingdom.