THE SNP have appointed Angela Constance MSP as the party’s new business convener at a meeting of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC).

Constance, currently Scotland's Justice Secretary, takes over the role from Kirsten Oswald MP, who recently announced she was standing down after holding the position for five years.

In the role of business convener, Constance will chair the SNP’s National Executive Committee, National Council and National Conference as well as oversee the operational matters of the party, including membership, campaign co-ordination and internal affairs.

Welcoming the appointment, party leader and First Minister Humza Yousaf said: "I am delighted Angela has agreed to take on this important position in our party.

READ MORE: Daniel Finn: Referendum on Irish unity is far from hypothetical

“I look forward to working with Angela to uphold and strengthen the management of our party and our democratic structures in order that we can continue to deliver for the people of Scotland and to progress our journey to independence.

“And on behalf of the party, I would like to put on record my gratitude to Kirsten Oswald for her diligence and dedication over the last five years. She really has put in a shift and all of our members owe her a debt of gratitude.”

Constance said she aims to "support party and internal processes" to build a "positive future". 

She added: “I am delighted to be appointed SNP business convener, and I look forward to working with the party to make sure we continue to make the case for creating a better Scotland for everyone in our society."