Summary
SNP members have supported John Swinney's plan to use the next Holyrood election to seek a mandate for a second independence referendum for Scotland. If the party wins a majority, they aim to push for a new vote on independence, despite opposition from other UK political leaders. The plan suggests treating the election as a substitute referendum if more than half of the votes cast are for pro-independence parties.
Key Facts
- SNP members support using the Holyrood election to push for a second independence referendum.
- John Swinney, who leads the plan, says this strategy is the most realistic way to achieve their goal.
- If SNP wins a majority, they intend to use it as a mandate for a new independence vote.
- The proposal includes treating the Scottish parliament election as a substitute referendum.
- Sir Keir Starmer, leader of the Labour Party, opposes holding another referendum during his term.
- Scotland previously voted to stay in the UK in a 2014 referendum, with 55.3% against independence.
- Amendments to the plan include aiming for Scotland to join the European Union if they gain independence.
- Scottish Conservatives and Labour parties criticize the SNP's continued focus on independence.
