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Deadline for SNP leadership job approaches Nicola Sturgeon to become new SNP leader
(about 9 hours later)
The deadline for nominations to be the new leader of the SNP expires at 09:00 on Wednesday, with Nicola Sturgeon the only person to put her name forward. Nicola Sturgeon is set to replace Alex Salmond as leader of the SNP and Scotland's first minister, it has been confirmed.
Ms Sturgeon, who also stands to become Scottish first minister, is bidding to succeed Alex Salmond who announced he was stepping down last month. Ms Sturgeon is currently the party's deputy leader, and the country's deputy first minister.
The new leader will be announced at the SNP conference in November. She will formally take over the leadership next month, and will also become Scotland's first female first minister.
Mr Salmond announced he was stepping down after the independence referendum.
Ms Sturgeon was the only person to have put her name forward as a candidate ahead of Wednesday's 09:00 deadline.
The new party leader will be announced at the SNP conference in November.
Her appointment as first minister still needs the approval of parliament, but the SNP's majority at Holyrood would ensure it goes through.
Front runner
Three candidates are vying to replace Ms Sturgeon as SNP deputy leader in a contest being decided by party members.Three candidates are vying to replace Ms Sturgeon as SNP deputy leader in a contest being decided by party members.
Scottish Transport Minister Keith Brown, who is seen as a front runner in that contest, is up against Youth Employment Secretary Angela Constance and SNP Treasury spokesman Stewart Hosie for the job.Scottish Transport Minister Keith Brown, who is seen as a front runner in that contest, is up against Youth Employment Secretary Angela Constance and SNP Treasury spokesman Stewart Hosie for the job.
Mr Salmond announced he was stepping down as first minister and SNP leader following the vote against independence, in September's referendum, allowing Ms Sturgeon to launch her bid to run the party. SNP business convener Derek Mackay said he was "delighted" that Ms Sturgeon will succeed Mr Salmond as leader.
Her appointment as first minister still needs the approval of parliament, but the SNP's Holyrood majority would ensure it goes through. He added: "She will be a fantastic new leader of both the party and our country. She will build on the substantial legacy and extraordinary achievements of Alex Salmond as the longest serving first minister, and make her own mark as she leads Scotland forward.
"I am also delighted that there is a choice of three top quality candidates for the post of depute leader.
"The party is in great heart and relishing the opportunities ahead. We enjoy a lead in voting intentions for both the next Westminster and Holyrood elections, with a record number of members bringing new energy, commitment and enthusiasm to our ranks."
Mr Mackay said there was "deep disappointment" within the party at not winning last month's referendum, but said there was now "real focus" on ensuring that Westminster delivers on its vow to deliver extensive new powers for Scotland.
He added: "We can look forward with great optimism to our new leadership team taking forward this work in the best interests of Scotland."