Swinney in line to become Scottish first minister after Forbes steps aside

Former SNP leader now likely to return to the role without a contest and take control of government next week

John Swinney is expected to be crowned Scotland's next first minister within days after his only rival ruled herself out and pledged to support his candidacy.

Kate Forbes, the former finance secretary who came close to winning the SNP leadership last year, said she was persuaded to step aside because Swinney had promised he would govern from the mainstream".