Patrick Harvie puts Jim Murphy’s resignation down to Labour straying from principles

Scottish Labour’s drop in support is a result of the party straying from its principles, according to Patrick Harvie.

Reacting to Murphy’s resignation, the co-convener of the Scottish Greens, said: “Jim Murphy's resignation was almost inevitable, but even as he announced it he promised to further weaken Labour's relationship with the wider labour movement.

“People haven't left Labour because of the trade unions, but because the party itself long ago strayed from its principles. Without a clear sense of purpose, it has seemed to care only about holding office instead of creating new ideas for a better society."

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Harvie continued: “It's clear that the Scottish Parliament needs an opposition that's creative and challenging, but which can act constructively too. The Scottish Greens are ready to take on that role.”

Jim Murphy announced he would resign as leader of Scottish Labour next month after compiling what he called a "comprehensive strategic report" on the health and future direction of the party.

Murphy aimed a parting shot at Unite boss Len McCluskey on his way out, saying someone “behind a big desk in London shouldn't dictate was the Scottish Labour party does”.

McClusky responded on BBC Radio 5 Live, saying: “He represented the ideology that has completely alienated... not just in the election, not just in the referendum, but for years.

“Since 2008 the SNP have been gaining ground and Scottish Labour have displayed an arrogance that unfortunately led us to where we were at the general election.

“The majority of my members in Scotland voted SNP. What I predicted would happen with Jim Murphy unfortunately came to pass.”

Meanwhile Neil Findlay ruled himself out of running for the leadership a second time, with the MSP releasing a statement saying: “The last week has been a traumatic time for everyone in the Scottish Labour Party. We now need to get on with the urgent task of rebuilding our organisation, the morale of party members and the policies we need to restore the faith of the voters in the run up to the 2016 Scottish Parliament elections.

“I hope to play my full part in that process but I also want to make it crystal clear that I will not be a candidate in the election for the position of Scottish Labour leader.

“I hope that we can now move ahead as quickly as possible in electing a new leader who will begin the fightback by rebuilding a confident, effective Labour party, proud of our values whilst offering hope and a positive vision for the future.”