Sturgeon tweets her best wishes

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, who hours before had said she “felt sorry” for Mr Carlaw for what she called his “bitter partisan politics”, tweeted her regards to the Scots Tory leader in the wake of the annoucement.

“I wish Jackson Carlaw all the best. We’ve crossed swords politically on many occasions, but worked constructively on some issues too - he has, eg, been a strong voice for women suffering mesh complications. Leadership is a tough business and I’m sure his decision wasn’t easy.”

However her Westminster leader was more blunt, with Ian Blackford tweeting: “So @Jackson_carlaw has gone. Was he pushed or did he jump? The speed of the messages calling for @Douglas4moray to be the new leader suggests the former. Just as we have seen with Labour, it is London calling the shots. No surprise that @michaelgove has been in Scotland recently”

Justice secretary Humza Yusaf wrote: Jackson Carlaw is a Unionist to the core. It is in his bones, he passionately believes in it. If he has come to conclusion that he cannot make the best case for Scotland remaining in the UK then no one can.”

Mr Carlaw’s deputy, Annie Wells, said she was sorry to see her friend go, and added: “I know it will have been a very difficult decision and I wish him all the best.”

While Ruth Davidson tweeted: “Jackson Carlaw has served @Scottories at almost every level for over 40 years. I can’t thank him enough for the eight years we served together as my deputy and you see the class of the man in his resignation this evening.”

Scottish Labour leader Richard Leonard said: “I wish Jackson Carlaw well, and I am sure he will continue to make a valuable contribution to Scottish politics. Although a political opponent he has remained courteous and respectful.”