SNP leader and Scottish First Minister John Swinney has stated that his party will "consider the implications" of its defeat in the Aberdeen South by-election. He acknowledged that the Conservatives managed to seize the seat by tapping into "understandable anger" in the region concerning the future of the oil and gas industry.
Tories Win After Campaigning on Oil and Gas
The Conservatives fought the by-election as a referendum on the sector. A senior SNP source suggested that voters either do not understand the party's energy policy or view it as "weak." Swinney conceded that the result was "obviously a disappointment."
Despite expectations of a close contest, Conservative candidate Douglas Lumsden won comfortably as the SNP vote collapsed. The SNP secured 8,258 votes on Thursday, down from 15,213 in the 2024 general election, while the Tories garnered 14,308 votes.
Reflection and Tactical Voting
Swinney told the Press Association that the Conservatives were able to "garner tactical voting in their favour" and capture the anger felt in Aberdeen and the north-east over oil and gas issues. He added, "We need to consider the implications of that result."
Former SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn, who vacated the seat after winning a Holyrood seat last month, described it as a "tough night" that "some will need to reflect on, quite heavily."
SNP Energy Policy Under Scrutiny
Pressed on the impact of SNP energy policy, Swinney noted that the party had "commanded public support" in May's Holyrood elections. The SNP currently advocates for considering climate compatibility and energy security for new oil and gas developments, a softening of the previous opposition under Nicola Sturgeon and Humza Yousaf.
Swinney emphasized the need for a "just transition" in the north-east, balancing climate obligations, energy security, and economic opportunities. He reiterated the party's call for the UK Government to end the energy profits levy, which he claimed is "undermining investment" in the sector.
Retained Seat in Arbroath and Broughty Ferry
Despite the loss in Aberdeen South, Swinney expressed delight that the SNP retained the Arbroath and Broughty Ferry seat, won by Lara Bird with an increased majority. He described it as "a resounding endorsement of the SNP."
Speaking in Dundee, Swinney congratulated the Conservatives on their victory but stressed that the SNP must reflect on the by-election's implications.
