Alex Salmond steps down as Scottish nationalist leader after ‘no’ vote

Alex Salmond is standing down as Scotland’s First Minister and SNP leader after his dream of an independent country was shattered. In Thursday’s referendum, 55 per cent of voters chose to stay part of the United Kingdom while 45 per cent were in favour of going it alone, with a record turnout of 84.5 of eligible voters. Mr Salmond said he was “immensely proud” of the Yes campaign but believed party, parliament and country would “benefit from new leadership” to take the devolution process forward. He added: “My time as leader is nearly over but for Scotland… the dream shall never die.”

We lost the referendum vote but Scotland can still carry the political initiative. Scotland can still emerge as the real winner.

Alex Salmond, stepping down as SNP leader and first minister

With the votes from all 32 council areas in, the result was a victory for the No camp by 2,001,926 votes to 1,617,989. The outcome has left a country divided, with Yes majorities in four areas including Dundee and the nation’s largest city Glasgow. Salmond announced his resignation as David Cameron promised new powers for Scotland. The First Minister, 59, said now was the “opportunity to hold Westminster’s feet to the fire on the ‘vow’ they have made to devolve further meaningful power to Scotland.” Meanwhile, the Queen has said she believes Scotland will unite in a “spirit of mutual respect and support” following the independence referendum.

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