Harriet Harman MP, Acting Leader of the Labour Party, responding to Jim Murphy announcing his intention to resign as Leader of the Scottish Labour Party, said:

“Jim has given so much to the Labour Party over the last twenty years. He, I know reluctantly, took the responsibility for leading Scottish Labour at the most difficult election they have ever faced. He did so with incredible energy, purpose and dignity.

“As a cabinet minister and leader of his party in Scotland, Jim has been a hugely important figure in the Labour Party. He leaves with the best wishes and thanks of our movement.

“It will now be for the Scottish Labour Party to choose its next leader.”

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