A RENFREWSHIRE MSP has been suspended by the SNP following revelations he bombarded a schoolboy with messages. 

Derek Mackay, a father-of-two, stepped down as Finance Secretary this morning just hours before he was due to announce the Scottish Budget for 2020-21.

It followed allegations made by The Scottish Sun, in which the Renfrewshire North and West man reportedly befriended the 16-year-old on Facebook and Instagram and sent him 270 messages.

In one message he was alleged to have asked “And our chats are between us?” and when the boy agreed, the SNP man told him: “Cool, then to be honest I think you are really cute.”

READ MORE: Derek Mackay resigns post after bombarding boy, 16, with messages

The newspaper further alleged he contacted the teenager over a six-month period, and offered to take him to a rugby game and out to dinner.

Now, speaking during First Minister's Questions in the Scottish Parliament, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has confirmed he has been suspended from the party as an investigation is carried out. 

Ms Sturgeon said she "does not condone his conduct in any way, shape or form."

Mr Mackay, who came out as gay in 2013, said: “I take full responsibility for my actions. I have behaved foolishly and I am truly sorry.

“I apologise unreservedly to the individual involved and his family.

“I spoke last night with the First Minister and tendered my resignation with immediate effect.

“Serving in Government has been a huge privilege and I am sorry to have let colleagues and supporters down.”

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