SNP defeats Labour confidence motion and sets out plan for choosing new leader

Humza Yousaf and his front bench during the vote in Edinburgh. The motion was defeated by 70 votes to 58. Photograph: Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images

The SNP government has headed off Labour’s attempt to force an early Holyrood election, as the frontrunners to succeed Humza Yousaf met for informal talks in an attempt to avoid another divisive leadership contest.

Anas Sarwar’s motion of no confidence in Yousaf’s administration – which would have forced all government ministers to resign – was defeated by 70 votes to 58 on Wednesday afternoon after the Greens voted with the SNP.