John Swinney bids to end SNP chaos by making Kate Forbes his deputy despite clash over her devout Christian views after he is officially sworn in as Scottish First Minister [Video]

05:33 EDT 08 May 2024, updated 08:57 EDT 08 May 2024

John Swinney made a bid to end SNP chaos today after he was officially installed as Scottish First Minister.

Mr Swinney has made Kate Forbes his deputy, drawing a line under despite tensions over her devout Christian views.

The move comes after Ms Forbes stood aside in favour of the veteran MSP despite frenzied speculation she would try to succeed Humza Yousaf.

‘I am deeply honoured to accept John’s invitation to be his Deputy First Minister,’ she said. 

Despite swipes that he is a ‘Sturgeon apologist’ and ‘continuity’ option, Mr Swinney was the only SNP leadership candidate when nominations closed on Monday. 

He was sworn in at the Court of Session after being elected to the post at Holyrood yesterday. 

Mr Swinney’s family, including his wife Elizabeth, thirteen-year-old son Matthew and brother David, accompanied him for the ceremony.