Which SNP MPs are in line to replace Ian Blackford as leadership coup rumours grow?

Ian Blackford is being considered for the SNP leadership. He has been in the role since 2017 but has recently been involved in several scandals. The Scottish Express has put together a list of potential candidates.

Stephen Flynn is the Aberdeen South MP and is rumoured to be organizing a leadership coup against Ian Blackford. He has been an MP since 2019 and has little Westminster experience. Joanna Cherry praised him on social media for a speech he gave in the Commons.

Joanna Cherry is a member of the SNP and a strong supporter of transgender rights. She was demoted for expressing her views on transgender issues. Ms Cherry has recently worn a suffragette-themed outfit in Parliament.

Mhairi Black is the youngest SNP MP elected since 1832. She is well regarded on the left of the party and by radicals on social media. Black has had some youthful indiscretions before entering politics. Still only 28, she is doubtful whether she would have the experience or temperament for such a high-profile and demanding role.

Alyn Smith is a Stirling MP and an influential figure close to First Minister Nicola Sturgeon. He was an SNP MEP from 2004 until 2019. His European experience would stand him in good stead as the SNP try to argue that independence offers a route back into the EU.

Stewart McDonald is the SNP's defence spokesman. He was rumoured to be making moves for the leadership in March. However, he only went to the chamber when he needed to and he found it a depressing circus.

Kirsty Blackman was elected as an MP 2015 and became the party's deputy Westminster leader two years later. She stepped down in 2020 citing her mental health and the toll of lockdown. Blackwoman has clashed with Joanna Cherry over trans rights and had to apologise for a tweet about the suicide of Owen Paterson's wife.

Ian Blackford's deputy, Kirsten Oswald, is in line to replace him as the SNP leader. She is the current deputy leader and the chairman and business convener of the party. Oswald lost her seat at the 2017 snap election but she is expected to win it back in 2019.