At a recent SNP event in Perth, party leader Humza Yousaf reportedly declared that most Scottish seats in the upcoming general election are a “straight fight” between the SNP and the Tories. Mr. Yousaf urged party members to help make Scotland “Tory free” and to “make history.” The assertion comes amid a recent poll suggesting that the SNP and Labour are neck-and-neck with voters.
Mr. Yousaf pointed out that within each seat held by the Tories, the SNP currently sits in second place, and he implored party delegates at the event to focus their efforts on winning these seats. In October of last year, Labour defeated the SNP in a by-election with a swing of 20.4%.
During his speech, Mr. Yousaf condemned the Tories over comments made by prominent donor Frank Hester directed towards MP Diane Abbott. Mr. Hester reportedly made remarks suggesting that Ms. Abbott “should be shot” and causing widespread outrage. Downing Street eventually described the comments as “racist.” The SNP delegates, who expressed solidarity with Ms. Abbott, gave Mr. Yousaf a standing ovation.
Turning his attention to the Labour party, Mr. Yousaf claimed that they have relegated Scotland to an “afterthought.” This charge relates to plans by Sir Keir Starmer to raise taxes on fossil fuel companies, a move opposed by the SNP due to concerns that it could jeopardise Scottish jobs. Mr. Yousaf exhorted delegates to “reject Tory policies, Tory ideas and Tory values – and that’s whether they’re delivered by someone in a blue rosette or a red one.”
Overall, it is clear that the SNP have their sights set firmly on winning the upcoming election in Scotland. With both the Conservatives and Labour posing a challenge in various seats, and with public opinion appearing divided, it remains to be seen whether the SNP will be successful in its goal of achieving a “Tory-free” Scotland
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