STEPHEN Flynn has hailed the election of Humza Yousaf as the new leader of the SNP as a “historic moment”.

The party’s Westminster leader, who backed Yousaf for the top job, said he looked forward to “working closely with him” to “deliver on the priorities of people in Scotland”.

Flynn said: "I warmly congratulate Humza Yousaf on his election as SNP leader, and look forward to working closely with him, as we deliver on the priorities of people in Scotland.

"The SNP is the only party offering real change from the damage and decline caused by the Tories and pro-Brexit Labour Party, who are completely out of touch with Scotland's interests.

"Together, the SNP will relentlessly focus on the issues that matter – tackling the Tory cost of living crisis, improving public services, strengthening the economy and offering people in Scotland a genuine choice over their future with independence.

"Finally, it's important to recognise the particular significance of Humza's election for many communities across Scotland, as he stands to become the first Scots Asian and Muslim first minister. The huge symbolism of this historic moment will send an important message to young people about the kind of country Scotland is and the fair and progressive future we want to build."