Humza Yousaf says progressive SNP policies like gender reform has put independence within 'touching distance'

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Humza Yousaf has defended "progressive" SNP policies like gender reform and insisted they have brought the party within "touching distance" of achieving independence.The health secretary kicked-off his campaign to become Scotland's next First Minister with a speech today at Clydebank Town Hall, where he received a standing ovation from his supporters, including two fellow Cabinet ministers.His big moment was almost overshadowed as Kate Forbes announced her intention to join the SNP leadership race just moments before the event started at 11am.Yousaf has been touted as a continuity candidate who will defend the policy platform pushed by Nicola Sturgeon, including the controversial gender recognition reforms (GRR) blocked by the UK Government.Scottish Secretary Alister Jack issued a rare Section 35 order to prevent the legislation becoming law - despite a majority of MSPs voting in favour of it.Ash Regan, who launched her leadership campaign on Sunday, has already pledged to scrap the GRR bill if she is elected leader.Forbes did not vote for the GRR bill as she was on maternity leave at the time the legislation went through parliament.Questions have been asked whether the finance secretary would have backed it given her membership of the Free Church of Scotland.Asked if he would serve in a government led by someone who opposes GRR, Yousaf said: "If another person wins it, and their values don't aline with mine, and with the social progressive path we have been on as a party, that has got us to this position where we are in touching distance of independenceAsked if he would take the UK Government to court over its blocking of GRR, Yousaf said: "I think we have to."I think if we lay down the first time the UK Government has