SNP’s Kate Forbes issues apology in bid to reset leadership campaign

Forbes promises to protect the rights of all, while rival Humza Yousaf is criticised over hospital backlogs

Kate Forbes has apologised for hurt caused and promised to protect the rights of everybody in Scotland, particularly minorities", as she endeavours to reset her campaign for the leadership of the Scottish National party after her faith-informed views on equal marriage, transgender rights and sex outside marriage prompted a bruising backlash.

Forbes, a member of the socially conservative, evangelical Free Church of Scotland, said on Twitter she felt greatly burdened and heartsore that some of my responses to direct questions in the media have caused hurt to friends, colleagues and fellow citizens," and she had listened carefully to the response.