Q&A Why has the Snp-green coalition collapsed and will there be an election?
Why did the SNP enter a coalition with the Greens?
The SNP fell one seat short of winning a majority at Holyrood at the 2021 election.
When Nicola Sturgeon ran a minority administration, the party had to make concessions to the Greens to win confidence votes and pass budgets.
She felt a formal deal would allow the SNP to govern with more stability.
What did the SNP agree to?
The deal, known as the Bute House Agreement, saw the Greens secure significant commitments and have two coleaders appointed as ministers. The Greens saw in commitments to improve transgender healthcare and an overhaul of the Gender Recognition Act, to bring in self-id.
Was the deal popular?
Sections of the SNP saw the Greens as far-left cranks who were responsible for toxic policies. The deal came under strain after Ms Sturgeon quit. Humza Yousaf strongly backed it in the contest to replace her but Kate Forbes and Ash Regan, who also ran, would have scrapped it.
Why has the SNP torn the deal up?
The Greens were preparing a ballot of members over whether the deal would continue, after a backlash over the scrapping of climate targets. While he denied it was the case yesterday, there is a suspicion that Mr Yousaf wanted to end the deal on his own terms.
What happens now?
Mr Yousaf said he will lead a minority Government. The SNP has 63 of Holyrood’s 129 seats, meaning it will need crossparty support to pass budgets or legislation. While the SNP relied on informal deals with the Greens in the previous parliament, the Greens issued a furious statement after Mr Yousaf tore up the agreement, raising questions over whether they will prop up his administration.
Could a Holyrood election happen?
In theory, yes, but it would not be a simple process. If the vote of no confidence in Mr Yousaf is passed, he will be expected to stand down. Then there would be 28 days to elect a new first minister.
Should no one be elected, a new election would have to be called.
How will the no confidence vote work?
If the motion is supported by at least 25 MSPS, it will be debated. Anas Sarwar, the Scottish Labour leader, and Alex Cole-hamilton, leader of the Scottish Lib Dems, have confirmed their parties will back the motion. The Greens are believed to be prepared to topple him. The casting vote could lie with Ms Regan, now a member of Alex Salmond’s Alba Party. In the event of a tie the Presiding Officer would be expected to vote for the continuity position, saving Mr Yousaf.