'The time is now': Nicola Sturgeon announces plan to resign

Ms Sturgeon has instructed the SNP to begin the process of electing a new leader and will remain in office until her successor is chosen

Nicola Sturgeon stands down without realising her key political mission – independence for Scotland. Picture: Jane Barlow/PA Wire

Nicola Sturgeon has announced she will stand down after eight years as First Minister, arguing that resigning is the best step for herself, her party and for Scotland.

In a shock announcement, the SNP leader told a press conference on Wednesday that she believes the “time is now” to stand aside but denied she is reacting to “short-term pressures” after a series of political setbacks.