THE SNP’s deputy leader has left the Scottish Government to focus his energy on getting the party ready for a new independence campaign.

Keith Brown has stepped down as Economy Secretary and will instead focus on elections.

HE said he will put the party on an election footing in the next few weeks.

Mr Brown will prepare for the possibility of a snap General Election and develop strategies ready for a second campaign for a future independence referendum.

Mr Brown said: “Over the last few weeks, the public outcry over the Tory power grab has led to a further increase in our party membership and a refreshed debate about independence – and so it has become clear to me that we must capitalise on this moment.

“The First Minister and I have agreed that, as part of the leadership team, I should dedicate my time and energy to the role of depute leader – effectively becoming the standing campaign director of the party – and lead work to build our policy platform, ensure we are ready for an early general election should it happen, build and strengthen the case for independence and start to lay the foundations for the 2021 Holyrood election.

“In the coming days we will be appointing a team of MPs and MSPs to support this work and put the party on a campaign footing."

Nicola Sturgeon said that the SNP must look to the future and campaign for independence as well as run a government.

She said: “Keith has done an excellent job as a government minister over many years and has many achievements that he can be very proud of, including overseeing the construction of the magnificent new Queensferry Crossing.

“However, he and I have decided that the time is right to ensure that the energies of the SNP leader and depute leader team are focused not just on delivering a strong SNP Government, but also a party operation that is from top to bottom, fit and ready for the opportunities that lie ahead.”

It means Ms Sturgeon will be reshuffling her cabinet with he need to replace Mr Brown.

Transport Minister Humza Yousaf could be promoted to the cabinet and Provan MSP Ivan McKee could be given a ministerial role.