SNP Westminster Leader Stephen Flynn (L) and Party Leader John Swinney (R) at the party’s campaign conference in Edinburgh weeks ago. (Credit: Jason Fong / Strathclyde Telegraph)
There are only 41 days until the May 7th election, and the campaigns have officially begun after the final day of parliament, leading up to the elections. Yesterday was the last day for many infamous Scottish politicians, including Nicola Sturgeon and Humza Yousaf.
- Anas Sawar has revealed on The BBC’s Scotcast that he only decided to condemn Kier Starmer on the morning of his press conference. His speech added to the pressure mounting on the Prime Minister 6 weeks ago, but failed to rally support within Westminster, meaning that Starmer survived the attack.
- Reform released their manifesto on Thursday, promising to fix the NHS and cut waiting lists, reform Holyrood by cutting the number of MSPs, “park” independence and cut Scottish income tax. Many of these policies have received scrutiny, like that their plans for the NHS are vague and the Institute for Fiscal Studies has branded their economic plan as lacking in fiscal credibility.
- Further controversy has marked the Reform Party in Scotland, with Malcom Offord receiving a large amount of outrage for a homophobic ‘joke’ he made about George Michael. Additionally, Dundee City West candidate, Stuart Niven, has been suspended only a day after he was announced due to a financial scandal.
- The Assisted Dying Bill has been rejected by MSPs after an emotional debate, with 69 MSPs voting no and 57 voting for yes.
This week will see an increase in politicians in front of cameras as the campaign officially starts. The party leaders will be asking YOU for your vote, so it is important that you are registered. The deadline for registration is April 20th, so ensure you have done so, as your voice matters in this election.
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