Can Swinney's Independence Blueprint Revive SNP's Dreams?
In a bold move, John Swinney, the SNP leader, has unveiled his strategy for achieving Scottish independence, aiming to rejuvenate hopes amid a looming election. The proposed plan, labeled as a three-pronged strategy, echoes familiar sentiments but seeks to adapt for renewed support.
Key Elements of Swinney’s Strategy:
Building Support: Swinney emphasizes the need to create «the highest levels of support possible for independence», indicative of a campaign that mirrors the 1997 referendum on devolution, where 74% backed a Scottish Parliament.
2. Public Pressure: He aims to generate public pressure around Scotland’s national rights, advocating for an “agreed democratic referendum” as the way forward for independence. However, he acknowledges that this decision rests with the UK government, and seeks to increase pressure on London to permit a vote.
3. Holyrood Election Strength: A notable victory for the SNP in the upcoming Holyrood elections is seen as pivotal, reinforcing the party’s claim to independence and rooting out alternatives that draw support away from the SNP, such as the Greens or Alba.
Swinney balances the urgency of the independence question with the need to address pressing day-to-day issues, amidst criticisms that independence has slipped down the political agenda. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer recently highlighted that Swinney had not prioritized independence in discussions.
The article raises crucial questions regarding the metrics of success for this independence push: What level of support is necessary? How will he persuade the UK government to allow a referendum? And what constitutes «an emphatic election win»?
As Swinney gears up for the election, he stands at a crossroads—while his intentions lean towards a robust independence agenda, the political landscape is fraught with uncertainty and diverging opinions within the party on the pace and approach towards gaining independence. This unfolding narrative will significantly influence not only his leadership but the future of the SNP as well.