SNP spin doctor Kevin Pringle not returning to Scottish Government under John Swinney's leadership

Kevin Pringle will not return to the Scottish Government as a special adviser under John Swinney’s leadership.

Humza Yousaf’s top spin doctor will not be returning under John Swinney’s leadership, it has been confirmed.

Kevin Pringle, who worked under both Mr Yousaf and Alex Salmond, will not be returning to the Scottish Government as part of the First Minister’s team of special advisers.

Speculation has circulated since Mr Swinney became First Minister that Mr Pringle was not returning to his job after officials initially pointed to a holiday the former lobbyist was on when a transition team was set up that did not include him.

Humza Yousaf's chief spin doctor Kevin Pringle is not returning to his government job (Picture: STV/BBC)

Mr Pringle was blamed by many in the Scottish Greens for reportedly advising Mr Yousaf to tear up the Bute House Agreement that spectacularly backfired and cost him his job as first minister.

The adviser first worked for the SNP in 1989 before he became Mr Salmond's top spin doctor between 2007 and 2012. Mr Pringle then led the SNP’s communications until 2015 when he joined Charlotte Street Partners for a public relations job.

Mr Pringle then made a surprise return to politics under Mr Yousaf last year, becoming his official spokesperson. But the Scottish Government has now confirmed Mr Pringle will not return to the team of special advisers.

Speaking to the Daily Record, Mr Pringle said: “Working in government is a privilege, and one I greatly enjoyed, during both the last year and the years after the SNP was first elected in 2007.

"I wish the Scottish Government, and indeed MSPs of all parties, well in making the most of the new opportunities that lie ahead. Regarding my own professional future, I want to take a little time to explore options for fulfilling challenges outside the world of government and politics."

Mr Swinney's spokesperson confirmed Kate Higgins had re-joined the team of special advisers, having been in her role since 2015. But former SNP MP Callum McCaig, who was hired a special adviser by Nicola Sturgeon, has announced he will be standing down, stating it was “time to move on to something new".