Mhairi Black calls Westminster 'toxic' and 'sexist' as she confirms she's stepping down at next election

SNP deputy Westminster leader Mhairi Black has confirmed she's stepping at the next General Election, calling the UK Parliament "a truly unhealthy working environment."

The Paisley and Renfrewshire South representative became the youngest MP to be elected in more than 300 years when she first took up the role aged 20 in 2015.

In a statement posted to Twitter, she labelled Westminster as "outdated, sexist and toxic."

Many have paid tribute to her including both the current and former First Minister.

In her statement, she said: "I have always maintained how outdated, sexist and toxic a place Westminster is.

"I have also made clear that I have no desire to have a long career in elected politics, and as we approach the next General Election, I will have been elected for almost a decade.

"I have dedicated a third of my life so far to Westminster - a truly unhealthy working environment.

"Watching people in my constituency continually harmed by a UK Government they never voted for, despite my best efforts to fight against its cruel policies, is beyond demoralising.

"While representing this brilliant constituency is a true honour, this aspect is painful and would take its toll on anyone that cares, as it has me."

Within the statement, she also said she reassessed her "personal priorities" and wanted to spend more time with her loved ones.

Former SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon paid tribute to Ms Black, tweeting: "Both gutted by and entirely understanding of this. Her reasons resonate.

"But what a loss of a unique talent, not just to the SNP but to politics generally. I only hope it's temporary."

SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn simply tweeted that Ms Black is "in a class of her own".

First Minister and SNP leader Humza Yousaf highlighted Ms Black's impact on politics, saying: "She has been a trailblazer - a passionate supporter of independence, equality, social justice, and simply of trying to make life better for her constituents and the wider Scottish public.

"She has also served as a role model for young people, especially women, with an interest or a desire to get involved in politics.

"I know that Mhairi has been critical of the toxic, hostile environment of Westminster, which serves as an important wake-up call to those who are determined to safeguard our democracy."

The Scottish Conservatives said Ms Black's decision pointed to "failing leadership" from Mr Yousaf and Mr Flynn.

MSP Craig Hoy said: "As much as the depute leader tries to blame Westminster, in typical SNP fashion, the public won't be fooled.

"Mhairi Black knows chaos is engulfing her party, which is why they are fighting like Nats in a sack.

"It speaks volumes about how bitter those feuds have become that Mhairi Black has thrown in the towel, just a few months after agreeing to become deputy leader, and decided not to fight another election despite not yet turning 30."

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