Former SNP leadership candidate Ash Regan defects to Alba party

Alba said her decision came after increasing disillusionment with the SNP's leadership and its "wavering commitment" to Scottish independence.

Ms Regan, 49, was elected as SNP MSP for Edinburgh Eastern at the last election and becomes the Alba party's first representative at Holyrood.

An SNP spokesperson said: "Her constituents elected an SNP MSP, and they deserve to have the democratic opportunity to elect a new, hard-working SNP parliamentarian who will put the interests of Scotland first."

Ms Regan received a standing ovation when she appeared on stage alongside Alex Salmond, after the surprise announcement was made at the Alba party conference in Glasgow.

Ms Regan said: "Sadly, it has become increasingly clear that the SNP has lost its focus on Independence, the very foundation of its existence.

"I could not, in good conscience, continue to be part of a party that has drifted from its path and its commitment to achieving independence as a matter of urgency.

"I am proud to become the first Alba member of the Scottish Parliament. I do this with a clear focus on reinvigorating the cause of Independence."

Read full article here