Energy Crisis to Define Holyrood Election, Says SNP's Flynn
Soaring energy bills will fundamentally shape the upcoming Holyrood election campaign, according to SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn. The MP, who is a candidate in Aberdeen Deeside and North Kincardine, made these remarks ahead of a campaign visit in Glasgow on Friday. He asserted that voters face a critical decision between enduring a permanent cost-of-living crisis under Westminster control or achieving lower energy bills through Scottish independence.
Flynn's Stance on Energy and Independence
Mr Flynn stated that it is almost inevitable the deepening energy crisis will come to define this election. He argued that Westminster's control over Scotland's energy resources has resulted in families and businesses paying some of the highest costs in Europe. The election, he emphasized, boils down to a straight choice for the people of Scotland: a permanent cost-of-living crisis under Westminster or lower energy bills with independence.
On May 7, voters can choose who controls Scotland's energy—the Westminster establishment or the Scottish people. Flynn also criticized Labour, noting that Keir Starmer and Anas Sarwar previously promised to cut energy bills by £300, but broken promises have led to bills potentially being £705 higher. With independence and full control over energy resources, he claimed, Scotland could reduce energy bills, offering a fresh start that only the SNP can provide.
Opposition Criticism and Responses
Scottish Tory energy spokesman Douglas Lumsden accused Flynn of hypocrisy, pointing to the Scottish Government's presumption against oil and gas. The draft energy strategy published under Nicola Sturgeon leaned away from fossil fuels, though a final plan remains unpublished, creating policy uncertainty. Lumsden highlighted that SNP and Labour MPs recently refused to back a motion calling for an end to the ban on new North Sea licences.
Lumsden argued that Flynn is shamelessly trying to deceive voters in the north-east, alleging the SNP has decimated the oil and gas sector. He stated that the Scottish Conservatives are the only party standing up for oil and gas workers and supporting North Sea drilling to cut energy bills, urging voters to support them to prevent an SNP majority.
Scottish Labour deputy leader Dame Jackie Baillie responded by saying the SNP wants to avoid discussing their own dismal record in government. She claimed they focus on independence and past arguments because they lack new ideas for Scotland. Baillie also suggested Flynn elbowed women candidates aside in his bid to become an MSP and is eyeing John Swinney's position. She concluded that only Scottish Labour can defeat the SNP and offer a new direction for Scotland.
