Scottish Labour leadership contest intensifies after historic Holyrood loss

Labour suffered its worst-ever result in the Scottish Parliament in the May Holyrood elections, prompting an internal debate over whether to support a roadmap for a future independence referendum. The poor performance is now shaping the upcoming Labour leadership campaign. Two potential contenders, Monica Lennon and Paul Sweeney, have signalled openness to the role, while Michael Marra is viewed as the early frontrunner. Lennon, who lost her seat in May but is returning to Holyrood after her predecessor Sarwar’s resignation, could pose a strong challenge to Marra if she secures enough nominations. She said she would donate the “resettlement payment” she received after her election loss to charities she supports. Labour leader Anas Sarwar’s deputy, Stephen Lamont, warned the party not to apologise for its unionist stance, adding that its members do not “wake up in the morning wanting to wave a flag.”