John Swinney

I’ve got a mandate to take forward and that mandate from the people of Scotland resulted in the largest number of MSPs in the Scottish Parliament who support independence and a referendum on that question.

On behalf of everyone in Scotland, I wish you all the very best as you compete at the highest level. Whether or not you win gold, silver or bronze – I know that you will make us all proud and inspire the future generation of sporting…

Sport should be accessible to all, and we want to ensure the legacy of the major sporting events taking place this summer to stretch far beyond the next few months.

The world will be watching, and this is a huge opportunity for us to showcase what Scotland has to offer – our passion, our warmth, our enthusiasm, our respect for others and our belief in the power of sport to inspire people and bring…

I understand the uncertainty and the anxiety of North Sea oil and gas workers. I completely understand that.

We are going to have to use oil and gas for some years to come as part of the journey to net zero.

My Government will respect the UK Government and its responsibilities, but we expect that to be reciprocated.

The people of Scotland democratically elected the largest number of members of the Scottish Parliament ever to support the concept of Scottish independence and the right of the people to decide that in a referendum.

We’ve got to respect democracy here.

What I want to do is engage in a constructive dialogue with the Prime Minister about making sure that the mandate I’ve received from the people of Scotland can be turned into reality, and the people of Scotland can have an opportunity to…

I congratulate Andy Burnham on his appointment as Prime Minister.

This investment will be built upon further through the delivery of Scotland’s significant future pipeline of offshore wind projects.

It is also an important decision for Scotland’s renewables sector.

This consent decision is a significant step in Scotland’s progress towards tackling climate change and reaching net zero, which is a key priority for the Scottish Government.

We have given the Caledonia North and South offshore wind farm applications very careful consideration.

If Westminster fails Scotland yet again, it will be clearer than ever that the only way we can take the powers we need to deliver the progress people want is with the fresh start of independence.

It must be decided by the people of Scotland.

If Andy Burnham is serious about strengthening the powers of the Scottish Parliament so we can grow Scotland’s economy and raise living standards, then he will find a willing partner in me.

The clear desire people have for self-determination cannot simply be wished away.

John must also declare that without a resultant referendum prior to the next General Election, that election will become a de facto referendum.

John must defy the doubters and demonstrate some leadership qualities in establishing a Citizens’ Convention to debate Scotland’s future.

We're the party that campaigns for independence. We just fought an election campaign in which we had a very, very strong anchoring of our campaign for independence.

I’m saying it’s part of the ongoing activities of the Scottish National Party.

I am very saddened to hear of the death of Ann Widdecombe and the awful circumstances in which this has happened. I extend my sympathy to her family, friends and many colleagues.

I can confidently say to members of the party that the money they donate to us is used to further the aims and objectives of the SNP, and it always will be.