Scotland's First Minister, John Swinney, has launched a blistering attack on Westminster, accusing the UK government of operating with a 'colonial mentality' that systematically sidelines the Scottish Parliament.
The explosive comments were made during a keynote speech at the Institute for Government, where Swinney outlined a pattern of behaviour from London that he claims is "eroding the very foundations of devolution". He pointed to recent UK legislation on post-Brexit frameworks and internal market rules as prime examples of Holyrood's consent being ignored.
A Pattern of Disregard
Swinney detailed a series of grievances, asserting that the UK government has repeatedly bypassed the Scottish Parliament on issues that directly impact Scottish citizens. This approach, he argued, treats devolved administrations not as partners in governance but as obstacles to be overcome.
"The UK Government's approach is not one of partnership but of diktat," Swinney stated. "It is a style of governance that belongs to a bygone colonial era, not a modern, collaborative union of nations."
The Core of the Conflict
The heart of the dispute lies in the UK Internal Market Act and the use of 'common frameworks' to manage policy after Brexit. The Scottish Government contends that these mechanisms are routinely used to impose Westminster's will, overriding devolved competencies and stifling Scotland's ability to pass its own distinct laws in areas like environmental standards and public health.
Swinney's speech signals a significant escalation in the ongoing constitutional tension between Edinburgh and London, painting a picture of a union under severe strain and a devolution settlement in crisis.
