Nicola Sturgeon's resignation speech in full as First Minister steps down

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced her shock resignation this morning. After almost eight years Sturgeon took the decision to stand down, saying it was a decision she had been considering for a number of weeks.Sturgeon will stay in power until the SNP appoint her successor and said she plans to carry on as an MSP until at least the next election.

Here is the transcript of resignation speech in full: "Being First Minister of Scotland is in my - admittedly biased - opinion the best job in the world."It is a privilege beyond measure - one that has sustained and inspired me, in good times and through the toughest hours of my toughest days."I am proud to stand here as the first female, and longest serving, incumbent of this great office."And I am proud of what has been achieved in the years I've been in Bute House."However, since my very first moments in the job, I have believed that part of serving well would be to know - almost instinctively - when the time is right to make way for someone else."And when that time came, to have the courage to do so - even if, to many across the country, and in my party, it might feel too soon."In my head and my heart, I know that time is now."That it is right for me, for my party, and for the country."And so today, I am announcing my intention to step down as First Minister and leader of my party."I have asked the National Secretary of the SNP to begin the process of electing a new party leader, and I will remain in office until my successor is elected."I know there will be some across the country who feel upset by this decision, and by the fact I am taking it now."Of course, for balance, there will others who will - how should I put this - cope with the news just fine."Such