The SNP has entered a new, more serious era

Nicola Sturgeon’s announcement that she will stand down is the most visible indication of this.

Departing, too, is her unfortunate, short-lived successor Humza Yousaf .

So far, nearly 20 Nats have announced they will step down.

First Minister John Swinney and his deputy Kate Forbes are attempting to renew their party in office.

Sturgeon remains at the centre of Operation Branchform , the police investigation into alleged misuse of party funds.

Ministers are awaiting the outcome of UK and EU defence reviews before making a final decision about how and where to act.

They are keen to fill the skills gaps that defence companies have identified.

Scotland is well-placed to take part in European rearmament and to defend the northern approaches.