MSP backs Macintosh to lead Labour

Mr Macintosh announced yesterday he was entering the race, which will pitch him against deputy leader Johann Lamont and Westminster MP Tom Harris.

Ms Dugdale said she had based her decision on who was best placed to make a positive case for preserving Scotland’s union with England and who would be best at effecting real change in the way Labour organised itself.

She added: “Ken is a born communicator, a very likeable, very approachable and very friendly guy. He believes passionately in making devolution work.”