SNP Leader John Swinney has urged Scotland to unite against Labour’s planned cuts which he said will have “profound consequences” for public services and living standards.
Ahead of his first conference as First Minister, Mr Swinney said that the SNP would focus harder than ever on the people of Scotland’s priorities – and pledged that the party would set out a real alternative to Westminster control, based on “hope and ambition.”
Speaking ahead of the conference opening, John Swinney said:
“SNP delegates gather this weekend in Edinburgh at the end of a watershed week in UK politics.
“The Prime Minister’s speech on Tuesday has made clear that Scotland is facing years of austerity under Labour, which will have profound consequences for public services and living standards.
“I am listening to the people of Scotland and their priorities and I am lucky to be supported by thousands of dedicated and determined SNP members who want to see our country move forward.
“I am proud to lead a government which is delivering transformational change for people across Scotland.
“The SNP Government is focused on ending child poverty, supporting economic growth, improving public services and tackling the climate emergency.
“But be in no doubt – our ability to serve the people of Scotland is under real threat by the sweeping spending cuts that the Labour government are introducing – cuts that, only a few months ago, they were denying would take place.
“The SNP, and indeed Scotland as a whole, must come together to stand up against Labour’s cuts.
“My belief that Scotland will be better as an independent country has never been stronger – and I know that we will win our independence when we show the people of Scotland that the powers of independence are central to improving their living standards, their local services and their communities.
“Under my leadership, the SNP will work harder than ever for the country that we are so privileged to lead.
“What people in Scotland need right now is hope and ambition for a better future – and that is what the SNP will offer.”
