Scottish Labour leader Johann Lamont has refused to comment on the shock departure of Aberdeen City Council leader Barney Crockett.
She turned down the chance to express her view on a day of high drama at the Town House yesterday when approached by the Press and Journal at Holyrood.
By contrast, Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon was more than happy to say a few words about Mr Crockett, who she knows through her role as cities minister.
“The important thing in Aberdeen is that the division and politics give way to what is in the best interests of the city,” she added.
“And that means the divisions in Labour and between them and other parties are put to one side now and we all focus on what the Scottish Government has been trying to focus on and that is the best interest of the city.
“If that is how we can move forward then I think that is in everybody’s interest.”
North-east Labour MSP Lewis Macdonald said he was confident that Mr Crockett, his successor Jenny Laing and finance convener Willie Young would continue to work well together.
“The decision is for councillors to make and that is the choice they have made,” added the parliamentarian.
“The important thing going forward for me is to back the administration to ensure it keeps doing what it is doing well and continues to do the best for Aberdeen.”
North-east Conservative MSP Nanette Milne said she hoped the local authority could “move forward and focus on improving Aberdeen for all residents”.
Aberdeen South and North Kincardine MSP Maureen Watt added: “I congratulate Jenny Laing on her victory over her colleague Barney Crockett.
“I hope she will take the opportunity to set the administration on a new path of co-operation with the Scottish Government and all of us who want to see the best for the citizens of Aberdeen.”