Ross-shire SNP MSP to stand down
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ROSS SNP MSP Dave Thompson announced today (Monday) that he will be standing down at next year’s Scottish election.
Mr Thompson (65), who represents Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch, has been an MSP since 2007.
He was a regional or "list" MSP for the Highlands and Islands from 2007 to 2011 and has been the constituency MSP since 2011.
He has formally notified the SNP’s National Executive Committee of his decision and a candidate will be sought to replace him, with nominations open in June.
Mr Thompson said: "It has been a great privilege to serve as an MSP, firstly as a Regional MSP for the Highlands and Islands and then as a Constituency MSP for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch.
"I joined the SNP in 1965, 50 years ago, and have gone through many ups, but mostly downs, until eight years ago when I challenged the Highland Returning Officer in 2007 and forced a recount which led to me becoming the 47th SNP MSP, giving us a majority of one over Labour. This led to the first ever (minority) SNP government and to where we are today."
He added: "This has been a difficult decision but I believe that it is the right time for me to now hand over the baton to a younger candidate.
"The party has never been in a better position and I firmly believe that I will see independence in my lifetime. I will, of course, continue to be involved with the SNP and plan to spend more time helping to develop Christians for Independence, of which I am currently Convener."
