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Former Scottish Labour leader to stand down as MSP

Getty Images A man with grey hair, swept back over his head, looks towards the camera in the Scottish Parliament. He is wearing a black suit and red tie with a light blue shirt. Getty Images
Richard Leonard has served as a backbench MSP since quitting as Labour leader in 2021

Former Scottish Labour leader Richard Leonard has announced he will step down from parliament at next year's Holyrood election.

The Central Scotland MSP led the party between 2017 and 2021.

He said he was proud of his work in parliament and would continue to campaign for a "more democratic, more equal, socialist society".

Leonard - a former union official who was seen as closely allied to former UK Labour chief Jeremy Corbyn - quit as leader ahead of the 2021 Holyrood election.

It came after some of his own MSPs said his leadership style could damage the party at the ballot box.

Leonard was succeeded by current leader Anas Sarwar.

Announcing his resignation on social media, he said he would continue to campaign for international peace and disarmament, as well as supporting efforts to tackle inequality and poverty.

Getty Images A man with dark hair walks in the Scottish Parliament. He is holding a black folder tucked up against his chest. He is wearing a dark suit, white shirt and purple tie. Getty Images
Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar has paid tribute to Richard Leonard

Sarwar said "Richard has dedicated his life to the labour movement and the cause of social justice.

"I wish him all the best for what comes next and I know he will continue to be a strong voice in public life."

The Scottish Parliament election is scheduled for May 2026.

So far, 20 MSPs have announced they will not seek re-election, including former first minister Humza Yousaf.