Humza Yousaf: Scotland’s First Minister resigns as SNP leadership collapses [Video]

The SNP leader said there would be a contest to replace him “as soon as possible” in a press conference at midday.

A tearful Mr Humza said he would remain in the role until his successor was chosen.

He has been under increasing pressure to step down since the collapse of his party’s power-sharing deal with the Scottish Greens last Thursday.

“Unfortunately in ending the Bute House Agreement in the matter I did I clearly underestimated the level of hurt and upset that caused Green colleagues,” he said.

“For a minority government to be able to govern effectively, trust when working with the opposition is clearly fundamental.”

He said a route through the no-confidence vote was “absolutely possible”.

But he added: “I am not willing to trade in my values or principles or do deals with whomever simply for retaining power.”

“After spending the weekend reflecting on what is best for my …