Jeremy Corbyn has emphatically stated that the decision to hold a Scottish independence referendum rests solely with the people of Scotland, asserting it should not be dictated by the UK Government in Westminster. The independent MP made these remarks during a keynote address at the inaugural Your Party Scotland conference held in Dundee.
Your Party Scotland's Electoral Ambitions
In a significant development, Your Party Scotland confirmed it will field candidates in the 2026 Holyrood election, following a member vote where 70% endorsed this strategic move. The party also passed a motion with 64% support, outlining plans to prioritise standing candidates on regional lists in select areas while running fewer candidates in other regions.
Grassroots Movement Takes Shape
Ellie Gomersall, a key organising group member, articulated the party's founding principles: "The political establishment has repeatedly failed people across Scotland. A new grassroots movement built by ordinary people is urgently needed. This weekend marks the beginning of that journey."
Gomersall emphasised the member-led nature of the organisation, noting that decisions on Scottish independence, organisational structure, and election strategy are being collectively determined by members from across Scotland. "With a right-wing Labour government in Westminster and an SNP administration running out of ideas in Holyrood, the need for Your Party in Scotland is unmistakable," she added.
Corbyn's Unwavering Position on Scottish Self-Determination
Mr Corbyn reiterated his longstanding stance during his conference speech: "I've always maintained that if the people of Scotland and Scottish organisations desire a referendum to determine Scotland's future, that choice belongs to them. It should not be dictated by the UK Government in Westminster, and we must make this position abundantly clear."
Labour's Internal Crisis
In a separate interview with BBC Radio Scotland's Sunday Show, Corbyn addressed the Labour Party's escalating turmoil surrounding the Lord Mandelson scandal. He suggested Sir Keir Starmer faces "enormous pressure and stress" and might temporarily withdraw from public view following the parliamentary recess.
"Starmer could potentially resign after the upcoming local elections in England, as well as the elections in Scotland and Wales, given Labour's profound difficulties," Corbyn speculated. He noted Labour's dramatic decline from its July 2024 election victory with a substantial parliamentary majority to its current precarious position, adding he doubts Starmer will call another general election.
Mandelson Scandal Fallout
Sir Keir Starmer addressed the controversy at Westminster on February 5th, revealing that Lord Peter Mandelson had misrepresented his relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. "Mandelson portrayed Epstein as someone he barely knew, which has proven false," Starmer stated. "When this deception became evident, I dismissed him. Such dishonesty is incompatible with public service, and no one is above accountability."
Organisational Timeline
Your Party Scotland is poised to commence candidate selection and policy development processes imminently. Additionally, a run-off vote to determine potential alliances with other parties in future elections is scheduled to conclude next week, marking another critical step in the party's formation.
