The SNP has said reports of Labour election planning suggest the party could seek support from Reform UK to form a government at Holyrood.
The claim follows reporting that Labour’s path to power could rely on backing from unionist parties, including Reform, in order to install Anas Sarwar as First Minister.
According to the report, Labour may attempt to govern as a minority administration with support from other parties if it falls short of a majority.
The reporting also included claims from a senior Labour source suggesting the party could argue it had a mandate to govern even if it did not emerge as the largest party.
SNP Campaign Director Angus Robertson said:
“These extraordinary revelations confirm the potential for a grubby, backroom deal between Labour and Nigel Farage after the election and show us once and for all that the way to ensure Farage and Reform are locked out of power in Scotland is to deliver an SNP majority.
“Until now, Labour had clearly been planning to pull the wool over the eyes of the people of Scotland, but this senior source saying the quiet part loud has shown people exactly what Labour would do given half the chance.
“It is clear that there is not even a hint of principle in Labour’s plans and there are serious questions for Alex Cole-Hamilton and the Lib Dems as to whether they would go along with a deal with someone like Farage.
“Labour would clearly say and do anything to get into power.
“What a contrast to the strong, experienced leadership of John Swinney which is putting the priorities of the people of Scotland first, improving the NHS, supporting people with the cost of living and delivering the fresh start of independence.
“Today has confirmed that an SNP majority win is absolutely vital, because it will not just unlock the transformational change of independence but will lock Reform UK out of power in Scotland.”
The issue highlights the political manoeuvring already underway as parties consider possible routes to power in a tightly contested election.
With no single party guaranteed a majority, discussions around alliances and support arrangements are likely to remain a central feature of the campaign.
As the election approaches, questions over leadership, priorities and potential partnerships are expected to shape debate across Scotland.
