John Swinney confirmed as new SNP leader and likely Scottish first minister

John Swinney has been confirmed as the new SNP leader (Picture: Jane Barlow/PA)

John Swinney is expected to be Scotland’s next first minister, after he emerged as the only candidate to stand to be the SNP’s new leader.

After nominations for the post closed, the former Scottish deputy first minister was confirmed as the only person to put themselves forward to succeed Humza Yousaf.