First minister election

MSPs have re-elected Alex Salmond as Scotland's first minister on 18 May.

Mr Salmond's election was not contested.

It is the first time a candidate has stood unopposed for the role.

68 MSPs voted in favour of him as first minister, while 57 abstained.

In his acceptance speech Mr Salmond used the opportunity to highlight three new demands to extend the powers of the Scottish Parliament, saying there was already broad cross-party consensus.

They included control over excise to help tackle Scotland's relationship with alcohol, he also wanted power over broadcasting, which he said would help establish a Scottish digital channel.

Lastly, he called for a change in the Scotland Act to allow a stronger voice in Europe, a position he said was first considered before the parliament was set up.

Mr Salmond said "My message today is let us act as one and demand Scotland's right.

"Let us build a better future for our young people by gaining the powers we need to speed recovery and create jobs.

"Let us wipe away past equivocation and ensure the present Scotland Act is worthy of its name."

He added later: "I think we should seize the moment.

"Act together to bring these powers back home.

"Let this Parliament move forward as one to make Scotland better."