It was announced this morning that the Yes vote was beaten, 55% to 45%. Alex’s entire political career has been focussed on taking Scotland out of the union.
In a speech, the 59-year-old – who’s entire political career has been focussed on taking Scotland out of the union – said he would stand down at the Scottish National Party conference in November, saying he felt it was time the party had “new leadership.”
He said: The real guardians of progress are not the politicians at Westminster, or even at Holyrood, but the energised activism of tens of thousands of people who I predict will refuse meekly to go back into the political shadows.
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“For me right now, therefore, there is a decision as to who is best placed to lead this process forward politically. I believe that in this new exciting situation, redolent with possibility, Party, Parliament and country would benefit from new leadership.
“It has been the privilege of my life to serve Scotland as First Minister.”
It’s thought his deputy, Nicola Sturgeon, will be the favourite to take his role.