Stewart Hosie to quit as Deputy Leader of SNP over 'intense scrutiny' of private life

'The stress of the intense scrutiny of my private life has been very difficult'

First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon and Deputy Leader Stewart Hosie (Getty)

Stewart Hosie is to step down as the SNP’s leader in Westminster in the autumn, citing “intense scrutiny” of his private life.

Confirming he will not seek re-election at the party’s annual conference, 53-year-old Mr Hosie wrote in a letter to leader Nicola Sturgeon: “I am writing to you to firstly apologise for any hurt and upset I have cause to friends, family and colleagues. That was never my intention.

Mr Hosie's announcement comes after several newspaper allegations concerning his private life appeared. He had recently separated from his wife, SNP Scottish Assembly member Shona Robison – a close friend of Ms Sturgeon.

Mr Hosie added: “As you know I have been admitted to hospital on three occasions in the past few years with very high blood pressure. In that regard, the stress of the intense scrutiny of my private life has been very difficult.”

"I intend to concentrate on my constituents, my responsibilities at Westminster, and most importantly, my health. It has been a pleasure to serve under your leadership and I hope to do so for many years to come.

"I wish you, your Government and our Party every success."

Pete Wishart, the SNPs shadow leader in the Commons, said: “Really sad, but totally understand why Stewart Hosie would want to stand down as Deputy Leader. He’s been a fantastic Deputy in the party.”

Mr Hosie, alongside his parliamentary colleague Angus McNeil, were last week reported to the parliamentary standards watchdog over allegations they conducted affairs with a journalist at hotels or accommodation paid for on expenses.

They are both alleged to have had separate extra-marital affairs with Westminster journalist Serena Cowdy.

In response to Mr Hosie’s resignation letter Ms Sturgeon said: “I want to take this opportunity to thank you for your service as Deputy leader since November 2014.

During your tenure in office, amongst you many other duties, you have authored two successful election manifestos – providing the policy reform for our victories in both the 2015 General Election and the 2016 Scottish Parliament election. These are achievements you should be very proud of.”

She added: “I have enjoyed working with you as Deputy Leader – and I look forward to continuing to work with you in the future. I wish you well.”