Scotland's Drugs and Alcohol Minister, Angela Constance, has launched a scathing critique of Sir Keir Starmer, accusing the Labour leader of effectively "dancing to the tune" of the Conservative Party regarding the future of Scottish devolution.
In a fiery session at Holyrood, the SNP MSP claimed that Sir Keir's recent comments on not further empowering the Scottish Parliament revealed a stance indistinguishable from that of the Tories. This confrontation underscores the growing political tensions between Labour and the SNP in the lead-up to the next general election.
A Clash of Visions for Scotland
Constance's remarks came during a members’ debate on strengthening devolution. She expressed profound disappointment, stating that instead of offering a progressive alternative, Sir Keir Starmer seemed content to follow the Conservative lead on constitutional matters. "It seems that when it comes to Scotland, Sir Keir is dancing to the Tory tune," she declared from the chamber.
She emphasised that this alignment was a direct betrayal of Scottish interests and a missed opportunity to outline a positive vision for the nation within the UK. The minister challenged Scottish Labour MSPs to clarify whether their leader's position truly reflected their own and the will of their constituents.
Starmer's Position and the Political Fallout
The attack centres on Sir Keir Starmer's stated commitment to "make Brexit work" and his apparent resistance to granting the Scottish Parliament new powers repatriated from the EU. This has provided the SNP with significant political ammunition, allowing them to frame Labour as an obstacle to Scotland's aspirations rather than a partner.
The exchange highlights a key strategic battleground. The SNP is seeking to solidify its argument that only independence can properly protect Scotland’s interests, while Labour is aiming to win back seats by focusing on economic issues and presenting itself as the party of change at Westminster.
This public dressing-down signals a fierce political fight ahead, with devolution and the constitution set to be central themes in the upcoming election campaign.
