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The arithmetic already takes into account a series of SNP controversies over independence strategy, gender self-identification, a police investigation into party finances, leadership changes and the collapse of a power-sharing deal with the Greens.

He later became cabinet secretary to the short-lived 1974 power-sharing executive and head of the Northern Ireland Civil Service from 1984 to 1991.

He rose through the ranks, and in January 1974 he was given a key role working with the new power-sharing executive, led by Ulster Unionist Party leader Brian Faulkner.

After he retired, Sir Kenneth reflected on the downfall of power-sharing in May 1974.

It would take another quarter of a century for power-sharing to return.