Sturgeon’s final speech as Scotland’s FM.

Nicola Sturgeon, Scotland’s first minister, has called the ongoing Scottish National Party (SNP) leadership election “somewhat fractious,” but also a moment for the party to “change, refresh and renew.” Sturgeon believes the SNP will emerge from the election in a strong position, but warned against “throwing the baby out with the bathwater.” Meanwhile, Boris Johnson has submitted to the privileges committee his reasons for believing he did not commit contempt of parliament in relation to the “Partygate” scandal. However, there are reports that the committee may not receive the dossier until tomorrow. The DUP has announced its eight MPs will vote against the revised Northern Ireland protocol, but the decision is indicative of the party’s position rather than set in stone. The RMT union has confirmed rail strikes scheduled for next week will still take place, despite the settlement with Network Rail, as the dispute with train operating companies continues. Penny Mordaunt, the leader of the Commons, has urged Conservatives not to obstruct the work of the privileges committee. Downing Street has backed Mordaunt’s comments, stating that the will of the House must be respected.

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