Deputy First Minister Jenny Gilruth is urging Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) to 'unite behind Scotland's right to decide' ahead of a vote that could pave the way for a second independence referendum. The call comes as First Minister John Swinney prepares to ask Parliament on Tuesday to formally request the transfer of powers from the UK Government to Scotland, enabling a referendum on independence to be held.
Pro-Independence Majority Strengthened
Ms Gilruth highlighted that the Scottish Parliament now has the highest number of pro-independence MSPs ever elected, following the election earlier this month. She stated: 'This SNP Government is hitting the ground running to deliver what we promised to the people of Scotland.'
She outlined immediate priorities, including expanding childcare support, providing up to £10,000 for first-time buyers, and reducing energy bills by placing Scotland's energy resources under Scottish control. 'And on Tuesday, the First Minister will bring forward a landmark vote, asking Parliament to support Scotland's right to hold a referendum on the fresh start of independence – just as he promised he would,' she added.
Democratic Mandate Emphasised
The motion to be voted on Tuesday welcomes the 'emphatic democratic mandate for bold and ambitious reform backed by the people of Scotland at the Scottish General Election.' It calls on the UK Government to issue a Section 30 order under the Scotland Act 1998, devolving the necessary powers to the Scottish Parliament to hold a referendum.
Ms Gilruth argued that 'with the highest number of pro-independence MSPs ever elected, the mandate for a referendum could not be clearer – and it is democratically unsustainable for Westminster to refuse to listen to the verdict of the people of Scotland.'
Labour Urged to Break with Past
The Deputy First Minister noted that senior Labour figures have begun to accept the democratic reality, and urged Labour MSPs to 'clearly signal a break from their failed approach which has led them to electoral disaster time and time again, by saying that they support Scotland's right to decide.'
She contrasted the SNP Government's focus on Scotland's priorities with what she described as a 'dismal, chaotic Westminster government in a state of permanent crisis.' Ms Gilruth concluded: 'That is why more and more people are coming to the conclusion that we should take all decisions here in Scotland – and be done with the failed Westminster system for good with the fresh start of independence. The first step to securing that fresh start will take place on Tuesday – and I am urging Parliament to unite behind Scotland's right to decide a better future.'
