Former management candidate for the SNP, Ash Regan, has stop the occasion to affix the Alba Party - changing into its first MSP.

Ms Regan, who received simply over 11% of the vote within the race to succeed Nicola Sturgeon earlier this yr, stated the SNP has "lost its focus on independence".

Ms Regan stated she couldn't "continue to be part of a party that has drifted from its path and its commitment to achieving independence as a matter of urgency".

"Sadly, it has become increasingly clear that the SNP has lost its focus on independence, the very foundation of its existence," she added.

Former SNP chief Alex Salmond, who arrange Alba, stated he was "delighted" to welcome Ms Regan, who's the MSP for Edinburgh Eastern.

He stated: "Her commitment to the cause of Scottish independence has never been in question, and her addition to Alba sends a powerful message about the focus and determination we bring to achieving an independent Scotland.

"Having Ash be a part of the Alba Party enriches our crew and sharpens our give attention to the speedy want for Scottish independence.

"She brings a level of commitment and principle that is deeply admired across Scotland, and I couldn't be more pleased to welcome her into our ranks."

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It comes simply weeks after MP Dr Lisa Cameron introduced she was quitting the SNP to affix the Conservatives.

Ms Regan had beforehand served as neighborhood security minister within the Scottish authorities, however had stop that place final yr so she may vote in opposition to controversial gender recognition reforms.

She then stood in opposition to Kate Forbes and Humza Yousaf within the race to succeed Ms Sturgeon.

Ms Regan, who was first elected as an SNP MSP in 2016, stated it had been "an honour to serve the people of Scotland as an MSP and a minister".

As Alba's first MSP, Ms Regan stated she would "take up the mantle of leadership for Alba at Holyrood".

In doing this, she vowed she would have a "clear focus on reinvigorating the cause of independence".

Content Source: information.sky.com