Deputy first minister Kate Forbes will stand down as an MSP at next year’s Holyrood elections.

Forbes has served as MSP for Skye, Lochaber, and Badenoch since 2016.

She has served as John Swinney’s deputy first minister since May 2024, shortly after he was sworn into office.

On Monday morning, she announced that she would step back in 2026 to spend more time with her family.

“After careful thought over recess, I’ve decided not to seek re-election to Scottish Parliament next year,” Forbes said on Monday morning.

“I’ve written to the First Minister this morning. I will continue to serve the First Minister, the Government and my constituents to the best of my ability until May 2026.”

In her letter to Swinney, Forbes said it had been an “incredible privilege” to serve her constituency, a

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