The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
Sturgeon hints at roles for defeated candidates
Politics: But Robertson says he’s off
Nicola Sturgeon has hinted at future roles for high-profile SNP scalps taken at the polls, saying she looked forward to their “continuing contributions”.
The first minister paid glowing tributes to her Bute House predecessor Alex Salmond and Westminster group leader Angus Robertson, the two highest-profile victims of a night of reverses at the hands of the electorate.
But she made clear she did not expect either to depart the scene entirely.
“In Scotland, the SNP won this election. We have more seats than all of the other parties combined and I want, today, to thank all those who have once again placed their trust in the SNP. We will endeavour every single day to repay that trust.
“However, it is an inescapable fact that we also suffered some bitterly disappointing losses last night.
“I want to pay tribute to all of the SNP candidates who campaigned so hard, but who won’t be returning to Westminster.
“In particular, I want to pay tribute to Angus Robertson, a politician and parliamentarian of immense stature, who week after week held the prime minister to account by providing the scrutiny that the official opposition in the House of Commons failed to do.
“And I want to also make particular mention of Alex Salmond, my friend and mentor for almost 30 years and, without a shadow of a doubt, the giant of modern Scottish politics – someone who has devoted his life to serving this country.
“Both Angus and Alex and all of the other defeated SNP candidates still have so much to offer to public life and I very much look forward to their continuing contributions.”
Speaking after his defeat, Mr Salmond did not rule out a return to politics, saying “never say never”.
He added: “I’ve been in politics 30 years. Politics has slings and arrows and we must expect the democratic verdict of the people.”
Energy spokesman Callum McCaig, who lost in Aberdeen South, said: “At the moment I am not sure what I will do, but spending time with my family is the priority for me now.”
Mr Robertson said: “That’s it from me. It’s time to go off and do something else.”
“It is inescapable we suffered some bitterly disappointing losses”