The Latest Breaking News from John Swinney

He is set to join the backbenches once a new leader is confirmed

A tweet has been issued by John Swinney announcing that he will be returning to a position in the back benches of the Scottish Government later this month when a new First Minister is appointed.

He announced he will leave the Scottish Government after almost 16 years when a new first minister is appointed at the end of March.

Swinney, who led the SNP from 2000-2004, has served in a variety of Cabinet positions under Alex Salmond and Nicola Sturgeon.

JOHN Swinney is to stand down as a minister following the SNP's leadership election.

GDP in Scotland is still 0.3% below pre-pandemic levels recorded in the final three months of 2019

The saving to Perth and Kinross Council of from eight days of school closures in February and March triggered by teachers striking should go towards study hubs to help those sitting SQA exams advises Perthshire North MSP John Swinney in a response he made to concerned parents.

KATE Forbes has responded to comments made by Deputy First Minister John Swinney about the leadership candidate’s stance on equal marriage.

Deputy first minister John Swinney intervenes as activists call for Forbes to withdraw from leadership campaign

The Deputy First Minister said SNP members will soon "make their judgment" on the views expressed by Forbes during the race to replace Nicola Sturgeon.

Strikes are taking place in certain areas around the country.