Swinney Launches SNP Election Campaign Bus with Dundee to Aberdeen Tour
SNP leader John Swinney is set to launch the party's election campaign bus in Dundee on Saturday, April 18, 2026, as he emphasises his key policy on affordable public transport. The First Minister will embark on a journey from Dundee to Aberdeen aboard the SNP bus, which features prominent livery stating "On Scotland's side," to showcase his commitment to capping bus fares.
Manifesto Pledge for Affordable Travel
In the SNP's manifesto, Mr Swinney has pledged to implement a £2 cap on bus fares across all of Scotland. This initiative aims to make public transport more accessible and alleviate financial pressures on commuters. During the bus tour, Swinney highlighted that a trip from Dundee to Aberdeen, which currently costs nearly £10, would be reduced to just £2 under the proposed policy, resulting in savings of £7.60 for passengers.
Scots are scheduled to go to the polls on May 7, 2026, and Swinney's campaign focuses heavily on cost-of-living issues. He stated, "I am looking forward to campaigning in every part of Scotland between now and polling day. The SNP is the only party fighting to win in every part of Scotland – and I intend to be First Minister for all of Scotland."
Addressing the Cost of Living Crisis
Swinney emphasised that the cost of living is a central theme of the election campaign, citing struggles with fuel prices, food costs, and energy bills. He asserted, "It is obvious that the cost of living is the defining issue of this campaign – whether fuel prices, food prices or energy bills, people are really struggling. And the SNP will not sit back – we will take action."
He further explained the rationale behind the fare cap: "Today, I am travelling from Dundee to Aberdeen and, under the current system, that journey could cost people almost £10. With a re-elected SNP Government, it will be £2. At a time when people are struggling, public transport needs to be affordable – people need to be able to get to their work and to get out and about. That is what I will ensure happens with the SNP's £2 bus fare cap."
Pilot Scheme and Broader Implications
A pilot scheme to cap bus fares at £2 was introduced in select parts of Scotland earlier in 2026, providing a foundation for the proposed nationwide rollout. The SNP argues that this policy will not only ease financial burdens but also promote greater use of public transport, supporting environmental and economic goals.
As the election approaches, Swinney's bus tour serves as a strategic move to connect with voters across Scotland, reinforcing the SNP's platform of affordability and action on living costs. The campaign underscores the party's commitment to tangible solutions for everyday challenges faced by Scots.
