The search for a new Scottish Labour leader begins today after Richard Leonard resigned.

Mr Leonard, who served just over three years as leader, said he was stepping down in the interest of the party.

He was the ninth Labour leader since devolution in 1999 and the sixth to be in opposition to the SNP since 2007.

He said: “Scotland needs a Labour government now more than ever before. Our NHS and public services are at breaking point under the strain of an out-of-control pandemic. Covid is rampant, claiming lives, and striking down so many of our fellow citizens, who are grievously suffering from this awful virus. Workers’ incomes are being squeezed like never before, with job losses rife and businesses going bust. Too many employees go to work day-in and day-out, night-in and night-out leaving them vulnerable to the virus.”

He added: “I have thought long and hard over the Christmas period about what this crisis means, and the approach Scottish Labour takes to help tackle it. I have also considered what the speculation about my leadership does to our ability to get Labour’s message across. This has become a distraction.

He had faced opposition from within his party with some MSPs openly calling for him to resign late last year.

Neil Findlay, MSP, an ally of Mr Leonard was scathing in his assessment of some of his colleagues.

He said: “Looks like those who have led a 3 year campaign of briefings to journalists, leaks of private conversations and the constant feeding of stories to the media to bring down a decent and honest man have succeeded. These flinching cowards and sneering traitors make me sick.”

The process of electing a new leader begins today and the party’s Scottish Executive Committee will meet soon to agree a timetable for the election.

Jackie Baillie MSP takes over as interim leader. She said: “I thank Richard for his service to our party and his genuine commitment to the values we all hold dear.

“We face the fight of our lives in the run-up to the 2021 Scottish Parliament elections. But as we fight for every vote and seat, we will come together to hold the SNP and Tories to account for their record of failure.

“I know Richard will continue to work hard to campaign for a Scottish Labour government as an MSP, and as our lead candidate in Central Scotland in the Scottish Parliament elections.”

Nicola Sturgeon tweeted on Mr Leonard: “Despite our political differences, I’ve always liked Richard Leonard. He is a decent guy and I wish him well for the future.”