Scottish First Minister John Swinney has declared that the SNP is 'within touching distance' of securing an overall majority in the Scottish Parliament, as voters head to the polls on Thursday. In a direct appeal to the electorate, Mr Swinney urged Scots to re-elect him as First Minister, asserting that rival parties offer 'nothing to the country'.
Swinney's Pledge to 'Get Things Done'
Mr Swinney emphasised his commitment to action, contrasting his leadership with that of Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. He criticised the UK Government for failing to address the cost-of-living crisis, which he said has left many Scots 'really struggling'. The First Minister promised that under his leadership, an SNP government would do 'everything we can to support people through these tough times'.
In an open letter issued ahead of the election, Mr Swinney outlined plans including a cap on essential food prices, an extended £2 cap on bus fares, and increased childcare support. He argued that an overall majority would enable the SNP to deliver on these pledges and 'lock Nigel Farage out of power in Scotland'.
Independence and Reform UK
Mr Swinney also tied the election to the goal of Scottish independence, stating that a majority would 'deliver the fresh start of independence'. Polls suggest the SNP remains the largest party, but Mr Swinney is seeking a second overall majority in Holyrood, having achieved this only once before. The rise of Reform UK has been a key campaign issue, with Mr Swinney repeatedly condemning Nigel Farage's party.
He concluded by urging voters to support the SNP to 'get things done', rather than backing opposition parties that seek to 'stop things happening'.
