McConnell lambasts Labour

FORMER First Minister Jack McConnell has delivered a damning verdict on Labour's time in government at Westminster.

In a scathing attack published on his website, he hit out over MPs' expenses and the failure of UK party colleagues over devolution.

He said: "We had many successes in government, but on too many occasions, I have been embarrassed by our conduct. The greed of individuals, party centralisation and inconsistent policy on the hoof have been damaging, and at times indefensible. We failed to adapt to the new political landscape."

Endorsing David Miliband for the leadership, he added: "I want Labour to be led by someone who understands the scale of our descent, and the scale of the challenge we now face."