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Jackie Baillie
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Jackie Baillie

Interim leader of Scottish Labour holding the post pending a leadership election.

Baillie is holding the Scottish Labour leadership on an interim basis since Anas Sarwar's 22 July resignation, and has ruled herself out of the contest that opened nominations on 3 August.

Last refreshed: 3 August 2026 · Appears in 1 active topic

Key Question

Who will succeed Anas Sarwar as Scottish Labour leader?

Timeline for Jackie Baillie

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Background

Jackie Baillie is holding the Scottish Labour leadership on an interim basis after Anas Sarwar resigned on 22 July 2026 to take a life peerage and a UK Government trade minister post.

She has ruled herself out of standing in the leadership contest that opened nominations on 3 August, with nominations closing on 17 August and, if more than one candidate qualifies, a members' ballot running from 28 August to a result on 19 September.

Baillie's caretaker role runs for the duration of the contest only, keeping Scottish Labour's front bench functioning while MSPs including Monica Lennon and Michael Marra weigh whether to stand for the permanent post Sarwar Left vacant.

Common Questions
Who is the interim leader of Scottish Labour?
Jackie Baillie is holding the leadership on an interim basis after Anas Sarwar resigned on 22 July 2026, and has ruled herself out of standing.Source: Lowdown
Is Jackie Baillie running for Scottish Labour leader?
No, she has ruled herself out and is serving only as interim leader during the contest.Source: event
Why is Jackie Baillie interim leader of Scottish Labour?
Anas Sarwar resigned as leader on 22 July 2026 for a life peerage and a UK Government trade minister post.Source: event
When does the Scottish Labour leadership contest close?
Nominations closed on 17 August 2026, with a members' ballot from 28 August to a result on 19 September if contested.Source: event
Who is standing for Scottish Labour leader after Sarwar?
Monica Lennon has declared, with Michael Marra floated as a possible further candidate.Source: event