North and north-east SNP MPs have given their backing to Stewart Hosie in the party’s deputy leadership race.
His campaign was boosted by support from Angus Robertson, Moray MP and SNP Westminster leader, as well as Banff and Buchan member Eilidh Whiteford and Western Isles representative Angus MacNeil.
Mr Hosie, Dundee East MP and SNP Treasury spokesman, is battling Scottish Transport Minister Keith Brown and Youth Employment Secretary Angela Constance.
Announcing his endorsement, Mr Robertson said: “I will be voting for Stewart Hosie because of his strong record and experience.
“He defeated Labour to get to Westminster, delivered a Yes referendum majority in Dundee and has held high office in the SNP as national secretary.”
Mr MacNeil said: “We must make a breakthrough at the Westminster elections and Stewart Hosie is the best placed candidate for depute leader to help this happen.”
Ms Whiteford said: “All three candidates to become depute leader of the SNP are extremely able and well qualified, but I believe Stewart Hosie is the best person for the job.”
Angus MP Mike Weir also announced his support for Mr Hosie, leaving Perth and North Perthshire representative Pete Wishart as the only Nationalist MP yet to back his colleague.