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by Louise Wilson
26 April 2024
In full: Kingmaker MSP Ash Regan’s letter setting out demands to Humza Yousaf

Humza Yousaf surviving the no-confidence vote depends on Ash Regan | Alamy

In full: Kingmaker MSP Ash Regan’s letter setting out demands to Humza Yousaf

Ash Regan has set out her demands to Humza Yousaf in exchange for her support in a vote of no-confidence.

The Alba MSP – who once served as the SNP’s community safety minister before resigning over the gender recognition reforms – said there needed to be a “reset”.

She called for Scottish independence, the rights of women and children and “competent government” to be prioritised if she is to back the first minister in the vote next week.

Douglas Ross has tabled a motion of no-confidence in Yousaf after the SNP ended the Bute House Agreement with the Scottish Greens.

That has so far been supported by 32 MSPs – the majority of the Tories and two Labour MSPs, Paul Sweeney and Martin Whitfield.

Regan’s support will be crucial to Yousaf’s survival as the Conservatives, Labour, Greens and Lib Dems have all confirmed they will vote against him.

Her letter in full says:

“Dear First Minister,

“The Bute House Agreement is over; Scotland deserves and demands a reset. I am open to talking to anyone across this chamber who will prioritise progress on what we were elected to deliver for our constituents and Scotland.

“Independence for Scotland, protecting the dignity, safety, and rights of women and children, and providing a competent government for our people and businesses across Scotland remain my priorities.

“My door is open to discussing the progress of my proposed Scottish Parliament Powers Referendum Bill.

“The opportunity to write a new chapter for Scotland is in our hands.

“Yours sincerely, Ash Regan.”

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Read the most recent article written by Louise Wilson - Sketch: MSP backs Justice for Jamie Hepburn as Humza Yousaf exits.

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