Reform UK Scotland to Launch 'Unashamedly Ambitious' Holyrood Manifesto
Reform UK Scotland is poised to unveil what it describes as an "unashamedly ambitious" manifesto ahead of the Holyrood elections in May. The party's comprehensive plan includes sweeping changes to energy policy, taxation, justice, and housing, positioning itself as a radical alternative to the current Scottish government.
Energy and Environmental Policy Overhaul
At the core of the manifesto is a bold energy strategy that seeks to reintroduce North Sea oil and gas as Scotland's primary energy source. This move is coupled with a commitment to scrap all net-zero subsidies, signalling a significant departure from current environmental policies. The party argues that this approach will bolster economic growth and energy security, prioritising practical solutions over what it terms "virtue signalling."
Tax and Justice Reforms
In a major tax overhaul, Reform UK Scotland proposes to remove Scotland's six income tax bands, replacing them with three bands mirroring the UK system but set at 1p below each current UK tax band. This aims to simplify the tax structure and provide relief to taxpayers. On justice, the manifesto outlines plans to introduce high prison sentences for repeat offenders, increase prison capacity, and end early release, emphasising a tougher stance on crime.
Housing and Social Policies
The party also addresses housing by pledging to reinstate "local connection" as a requirement for housing applications in Scotland, a measure abolished by the SNP in 2022. This is intended to prioritise local residents in housing allocations. Additionally, the manifesto rules out another independence referendum in the near term and guarantees that the Scottish NHS will remain free at the point of need, fully funded by general taxation.
Leadership Vision
Commenting ahead of the launch, Reform UK Scotland leader Malcolm Offord is expected to state: "Our manifesto presents an unashamedly ambitious vision for a prosperous and flourishing Scotland. One that prioritises economic growth and ordinary people above the total mismanagement that Scots have become accustomed to for the past two decades. Be under no illusion: the only way to end the SNP's 19 years of managed decline and get Scotland growing again is by voting for Reform UK in May's Holyrood election."
The manifesto's release is scheduled for Thursday, 19 March 2026, with the party aiming to galvanise support ahead of the critical May elections. By focusing on economic revitalisation, energy independence, and law and order, Reform UK Scotland seeks to present a clear alternative to the status quo, appealing to voters dissatisfied with current governance.
