Yousaf accepts mistakes at what might be his final FMQs

Humza Yousaf admitted he had made mistakes during his time on the Scottish Government frontbenches as he faced what may have been his final appearance at First Minister’s Questions.

He announced earlier this week he will step down as First Minister following a period of political turmoil sparked by his decision to end the Bute House Agreement with the Scottish Greens.

Mr Yousaf later said he did not fully understand how the abrupt decision would anger the Greens, who later said they would back a Conservative-led motion of no confidence in his leadership and effectively forced him from office.

Confronted by Scottish Tory leader Douglas Ross – who said his party had forced Mr Yousaf to resign “in disgrace” by tabling the motion – the First Minister said: “Of course [Mr Ross] has every right and prerogative to gloat about the position that I am in. The only exception I would take to Douglas Ross is no, I don’t feel disgraced at all.”

The First Minister went on to say he is “very proud” to have been the first person of colour to lead Scotland, the first Muslim to lead a Western nation and the youngest person to hold the position. And he was proud of his service to government and country over 12 years on the frontbenches.

“Did I get everything right? Absolutely not, and that’s very evident and very clear. But can I be proud of this Government’s record? Absolutely,” he added, citing the SNP’s abolition of tuition fees, scrapping of prescription fees, and making personal care free. Yesterday’s FMQs could have been Mr Yousaf ’s last – if his party avoids a leadership contest.