No vote should ‘put Salmond’s role at stake’

First Minister Alex Salmond and Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon. Picture: Robert Perry

Jackson Carlaw, deputy Scottish Conservative leader, made the suggestion after Mr Salmond said he would try to lead the SNP to its third Scottish election victory after the 18 September vote.

“I intend to stand again in 2016. Whatever the political circumstances, there will be an election in 2016 and the people will choose the First Minister,” he said. “I believe I will be a  candidate in an independent Scotland. But I am not presuming I will be First Minister, it is up to the people to decide.”

Mr Carlaw said: “If there is a No vote in September, the First Minister and his deputy must submit themselves to a vote of confidence in the Scottish Parliament without delay.

“Having parked the business of running the country for more than two years and having argued that independence is their only policy option, the people of Scotland will see through any attempt to grandstand and cling to office.

“Scotland will need fresh  leadership and should expect no less.”