MSPs to pick Presiding Officer
AS one election comes to an end, a second one is set to begin.
This time it will be MSPs voting in a new Presiding Officer for the Scottish parliament.
So far, no one has publicly revealed their intentions to stand for the prestigious position, which carries a £113,000 salary. However, rumours are already circulating about who might take over from Ken Macintosh.
Potential candidates include Conservative Liz Smith and Green MSP Alison Johnstone.
Last night, Conservative Party sources said they expected Miss Smith, the Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP, to consider a bid. She has been an MSP since 2007.
Miss Johnstone was first tipped for the job last year – with sources suggesting that it would send a message about Scotland’s climate ambitions.
However, last night her party said there had been no word from her.
The Presiding Officer is a non-partisan position and heads up the Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body, with a key say in political business. It is usually filled by an experienced senior MSP. Two deputies will also be elected but will remain party political MSPs.
The secret ballot is due to take place on Thursday, with the deputy positions to be filled the following day.