Stephen Flynn, the SNP's Westminster leader, has warned that Thursday's elections across Scotland, England, and Wales could spell 'Starmageddon' for Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. Speaking ahead of the polls, Flynn claimed that Labour's promises of change have only delivered chaos, and that the Scottish Parliament election could be a decisive moment for the Prime Minister's leadership.
Flynn's Warning
Flynn, who is himself standing for Holyrood on Thursday, argued that the Scottish election is the first opportunity for people in Scotland to have their say on Starmer's premiership. He stated, 'The Scottish election could spell curtains for Keir Starmer if enough people vote SNP to tackle the cost of living, improve our NHS and secure a fresh start with independence.' Flynn described this as 'the cost-of-living election,' accusing Labour of being distracted by scandals and infighting while families face soaring bills.
Flynn criticised Labour's record, saying energy bills will soon be £700 higher than promised, food and fuel prices have risen sharply, and UK unemployment is at a five-year high. He also accused Starmer of betraying women over state pension inequality and breaking promises on the Grangemouth oil refinery, which he claims will destroy thousands of Scottish energy jobs.
Broader Electoral Context
Beyond Scotland, Labour faces potential losses in Wales, where it could lose power for the first time in devolution history, and in English council elections, where seats could be lost to Reform UK and the Greens. This has fuelled speculation about challenges to Starmer's leadership, with figures like Health Secretary Wes Streeting, Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, and former deputy prime minister Angela Rayner reportedly preparing to move.
Flynn had previously likened the infighting in Labour to 'auditions for Labour Party Celebrity Traitors.' He said, 'It’s no wonder that across Scotland, Wales and England people are talking about this election being a Starmageddon.'
Labour's Response
Scottish Labour deputy leader Jackie Baillie responded by framing the election as a choice between the SNP and Labour. 'This election is about sending one person packing and that is John Swinney,' she said, referring to the SNP leader. Baillie highlighted crises in the NHS, schools, and rising crime under the SNP, urging voters to reject Reform, beat the SNP, and vote Scottish Labour on May 7.
The election results could reshape the political landscape, with the SNP aiming for an overall majority at Holyrood and Labour fighting to maintain its position across the UK.
