John Swinney and Martin Compston have called on voters across Scotland to unite behind the SNP to block Nigel Farage from gaining influence after the election.

The appeal comes amid renewed political tension over potential post election alliances, with claims that Labour could seek cooperation with Nigel Farage and Reform UK.

Speaking ahead of the election, the First Minister said he would have no involvement with Farage or his party and warned against the prospect of their influence in Scottish politics.

John Swinney said:

“I am absolutely clear, I will have nothing to do with Nigel Farage, his man in Scotland Lord Offord or Reform UK.

“Their politics are dangerous and the very idea that they could have power and influence in Parliament after the election will be really concerning to people across the country.

“We know what Reform would mean for Scotland and the fact that Labour are willing to work with them after the election shows just how desperate they have become.

“That is why we need an SNP majority at this election which will unlock the fresh start of independence and lock Nigel Farage out of power in Scotland.

“And I am asking people to unite behind the SNP for a government under my experienced, reliable leadership that is always on Scotland’s side.”

Actor Martin Compston also backed the call, warning of the potential impact of Reform UK policies on Scotland.

Martin Compston said:

“Nigel Farage isn’t interested in Scotland, he wants to cut our budget, shrink our Parliament and would privatise our NHS if he got half the chance.

“We should have none of it.

“And the fact that Labour are willing to work with him shows just how far they have fallen.

“On May 7th, the way to keep Farage’s toxic politics out of Scotland is for people to unite behind the SNP and the way to lock Farage out of Scotland for good is by becoming an independent country.”

The intervention reflects a broader push by the SNP to frame the election as a decisive moment for Scotland’s political direction, with independence and opposition to Reform UK central to its message.