Ian Blackford leaves SNP Westminster leadership

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Ian Blackford steps down as SNP leader in Westminster as Nicola Sturgeon's party prepares to appoint a new leader to lead the independence campaign Scotland in parliament.

The MP for Ross, Skye and Lochaber has said it's time for 'new leadership' in the Commons, announcing he will not stand again at the General Assembly SNP MP next week.

His exit follows reports of a plot to oust him as leader of Westminster amid a row over his handling of allegations of sexual misconduct against SNP MP Patrick Grady. . "I can't wait to be the MP who leads the SNP group out of Westminster for the last time," he told The Scotsman.

But on Thursday, M Blackford said he was leaving his post to take on a new role in the SNP's campaign for another independence referendum, leading to the business pledge.

"After more than five years in office, now is the time for new leadership in Westminster as we head towards a general election and the next steps in winning Scottish independence,” he said.

Mr Blackford said: 'During my tenure as leader, the SNP won a landslide victory in the 2019 general election, with an increased share of the vote and MPs, and support for independence continued to grow with polls this week showing a majority in favour.support as together we stand up for Scotland's interests and the democratic right to choose our path. take place in a referendum on independence. »

Mr. Black Ford had been called to resign over his handling of sexual misconduct complaints against fellow member Mr Grady.

Many party members were angry that he did not force Mr Grady to resign from his post as SNP Chief Whip when allegations emerged. Leaked audio sparked further frustration when Mr Blackford was heard saying the MP needed backing.

Mr. Grady quit the party in June to sit as an independent after the Metropolitan Police said they were investigating allegations of sexual assault. Scotland Yard announced in July that no further action would be taken following discussions with the alleged victim.

Ms Sturgeon later said that the support given to Mr Grady at...