In a speech that had been widely trailed ahead of today’s announcement, Alexander acknowledged that Labour needed to “reform, renew and reconnect” if it wanted to regain power. 

“Despite our achievements, we failed to convince the people of Scotland that we deserved their continued support. Too many people felt let down. Perhaps they felt we hadn’t listened to their concerns. Perhaps they thought we had been complacent. What is certain is that some people who had supported us in the past became disillusioned,” she said. 

Alexander said that Scottish Labour need to combat perceptions that it was too focused on the west Central Belt, and also needed to engage in debate over the future of Scotland’s role within the UK, although she reiterated her commitment to the Union: 

“People like the idea of partnership. They are relaxed about relationship with the rest of the UK. Our Scottishness is not under threat. So we need to make the case for a new partnership in the UK and make it with the voice of confident Scots.” 

Positioning herself as the champion of ‘aspirational’ voters, Alexander said Labour under her leadership needed to reconnect with voters who, although broadly sympathetic to Labour values, felt the party did not represent them. 

“The concerns of Scottish families are to get on in life, to make sure their kids get the best possible start, and to live in safe and friendly communities. These are the issues in homes up and down the country. 

“But what it takes to get on in life, to give your kids the best start and to live in safety is changing all the time. In short conditions change and aspirations rise. And we need to be more in tune with those changes.” 

None of the leading Labour figures have indicated they will challenge Alexander, although the left-wing Campaign for Socialism group may stand a candidate. 

The group is believed to be meeting on Sunday to discuss its options.