Mr Neil told Times Radio: “There was a request from Humza because, in his words, of pressure he was under from the mosque for him to be absent for the vote. “Alex Salmond as the first minister gave him permission to do that.”As a result, Mr Neil questioned whether Mr Yousaf has the necessary “backbone” to be the next first minister. The former MSP said: “I think Kate Forbes has proved that she’s got backbone. Mr Yousaf, Ms Forbes and former community safety minister Ash Regan all secured the necessary support to make it on to a ballot of party members. We need, and should expect, better judgement, communication, and leadership skills if we are to ever convince others of independence.

Source: The Times February 24, 2023 23:14 UTC