SNP defeats Labour’s motion of no confidence in Holyrood

Scottish Greens vote with government despite uncertainty after Humza Yousaf’s resignation

The SNP government has defeated Labour’s attempt to force an early Holyrood election, as the Scottish Greens warned the party it must “remain progressive” as an imminent leadership contest threatens to reopen bitter divisions.

Anas Sarwar’s motion of no confidence in Humza Yousaf’s administration – which would have forced all government ministers to resign – was defeated by 70 votes to 58 on Wednesday afternoon after the Greens voted with the SNP.