The SNP manifesto pledged to reverse the earlier move

Elaine Smith has put down a motion aimed at keeping open the Accident and Emergency Department at Monklands General Hospital.

The SNP manifesto stated that it would "reverse the decision" to downgrade.

Nationalist leader Alex Salmond said his party in minority government was limited by the will of parliament.

Ms Smith's motion, the first from a backbencher in the new session of parliament, states that the cut would be wrong and unfair.

She has not ruled out voting for Mr Salmond as first minister next week, adding: "If it's Alex for first minister and Monklands hospital is not downgraded, then I have to consider the interests of my constituents."

Monklands General is on the border of Ms Smith's Coatbridge and Chryston constituency, but sits in Airdrie and Shotts.

People took to the streets to protest at the plan

Mr Salmond, whose party became the largest in Holyrood following the election, said he looked forward to having her vote.

"Our priorities are well known and I think you can assume that if we form the government, then we'll follow these priorities," he said.

But he added: "It's also the case that if you're in minority government, a great number of things you do are subject to parliamentary will. We understand that as well."

The SNP has also made a commitment to keeping open emergency services at Ayr hospital.