DUMFRIES and Galloway’s politicians have been sending their congratulations to Scotland’s new First Minister Humza Yousaf.

Following Yousaf’s appointment as First Minister and the SNP’s new leader, Secretary of State for Scotland MP Alister Jack said: “My congratulations go to Humza Yousaf on being elected as the new First Minister of Scotland.

“The UK Government wants to work constructively with him on the issues that matter to people in Scotland. I was pleased that during his acceptance speech Mr Yousaf made clear he also wants to work together. That is what people in Scotland, rightly, expect.

“There is a huge amount to be done – continuing to tackle the cost of living, growing Scotland’s economy, tackling NHS waiting lists, ensuring our energy security and improving transport links.”

South Scotland SNP MSP Emma Harper also wished her party leader well in his new roles, she said:“I congratulate Humza Yousaf both on securing the leadership of our party and on being elected today as Scotland’s First Minister in the Scottish Parliament. The vote makes Mr Yousaf the first person of colour to hold the role and serves to show the progress Scotland has made, and indeed will continue to make, in our journey to a fair and equal country.

“I know that Mr Yousaf will never shy away from tackling the big issues our country faces. He will lead a government that listens carefully and respects the views of all MSPs. He has also made a commitment to Dumfries and Galloway and South Scotland, to ensure people are heard and included in national policy making, and to work to make sure that no one is forgotten.

“Mr Yousaf’s starting point will always be that we all want the best for Scotland and the people that we are so privileged to represent, and I have no doubt that he will stand up unequivocally for the Scottish parliament, for the people of Scotland and in our nations campaign for independence. I look forward to working with Mr Yousaf and his team in the weeks and months to come.”