ALEX Salmond finally left his position as First Minister two months after he announced his resignation.

He made his final statement to the Scottish Parliament reflecting on his seven years at the head of an SNP government and the parliament's 15 year existence.

He left with speeches from Labour's Jackie Baillie and party leaders Ruth Davidson, Willie Rennie And Patrick Harvie wishing him well but pointing out what they believed to be his government's shortcomings.

Mr Salmond praised the parliament's cross party support for social and economic change during his time in office and gave special mention to free tuition fees for higher education students with LibDem and Green support.

Every party backing climate change legislation and Labour and the Greens backing measures to mitigate the bedroom tax were also highlighted.

He reflected on the referendum, following which he announced his intention to resign, saying: "In the last few months we have watched an electorate passionately engaged in the business of fashioning their own future.

"Scotland has a new sense of political confidence and a new sense of economic confidence."

He added: "Any parting is tinged with some sorrow, but in this case it is vastly outweighed by a sense of optimism and confidence.

"Confidence that we will have an outstanding new First Minister.

"Confidence in the standing and the capability of this chamber, and most of all confidence in the wisdom, talent and potential of the people of Scotland."

For Labour, Jackie Baillie began by recognising Mr Salmond's commitment.

She said: "No one of any party is able to deny the First Minister's passion for Scotland or his love of his country."

His possible return to Westminster as an MP was raised by himself and his opponents.

Speaking of his first four years as first Minister between 2007 and 2011, he said: "I have absolutely no idea if my experience in minority government in this place will ever come in handy in another place."

Ms Baillie also hinted that she did not believe the 59-year-old was ready for retirement just yet.

She said: "We know, given his track record, though, that he might just emulate Arnold Schwarzenegger and proclaim he will be back."