Dugdale Targets Scottish Labour Leadership

Kezia Dugdale has announced she is standing to be the next leader of Scottish Labour, declaring it is time for a new generation with a vision for the future of Scotland''.

Ms Dugdale, who was elected to Holyrood four years ago, became the party's deputy leader north of the border in December.

She is now favourite to take over from Jim Murphy, who announced he would be stepping down after Scottish Labour lost 40 of its 41 seats north of the border in the general election.

Mr Murphy, who had been an MP for 18 years, was ousted from his East Renfrewshire constituency as Nicola Sturgeon's SNP swept the board in Scotland.

Ms Dugdale, 33, said today: I am standing to be Scottish Labour leader and I intend to transform my party for the good of my country.''

The Lothian MSP said she would formally launch her campaign next month, after the party has set out the rules and timetable for the leadership contest.