John Swinney has launched the SNP’s election manifesto with a strong focus on the cost of living, public services and a renewed push for independence.
Speaking in Glasgow, Swinney said the election offers a choice to “put Scotland’s future in Scotland’s hands” through a referendum on independence.
He pointed to his record in office, highlighting reduced waiting times, expanded healthcare access, rail fare changes and action on child poverty as evidence of delivery.
But he made clear the next phase would go further, with the cost of living crisis described as the defining issue facing households.
Central to the manifesto is a package of measures aimed at easing pressure on everyday costs.
This includes a £10,000 contribution towards deposits for first time buyers, expanded childcare provision from nine months through to the end of primary school, and a nationwide £2 cap on bus fares.
Swinney also announced plans to use public health powers to introduce maximum prices on essential food items such as bread, milk and eggs.
He said rising food costs were now impacting health and described the situation as unacceptable in a country with Scotland’s resources.
On energy, he argued that high bills are not due to lack of resources but lack of control, linking this directly to the case for independence.
He said a referendum would allow Scotland to lower energy costs, rejoin Europe and take full control of its economic future.
The NHS was also a major focus, with a plan built around investment, protection and renewal.
Swinney pledged increased spending, a continued commitment to free care at the point of need and reforms aimed at shifting services into communities.
This includes more GP walk in clinics and expanded preventative care such as heart and lung checks.
Economic growth was framed as essential to funding public services, with proposals to create a Major Projects Office to speed up investment and a High Growth Unit to support businesses.
Planning reform was also outlined to reduce delays and attract investment.
Alongside this, the manifesto includes commitments to deliver 150000 apprenticeships, a teacher jobs guarantee, investment in roads, a rural housing fund and new taxes targeting private jets and high value properties.
Swinney positioned the manifesto as one aimed at the whole country, stressing unity and shared opportunity.
He said:
“At this moment Scotland needs experienced, principled, reliable leadership in the highest office in the land and that is what I offer this country.”
The speech closed with a clear appeal for both votes in the election, arguing that only a majority would secure a referendum on independence.
With the campaign now fully underway, the manifesto sets out the SNP’s pitch on the economy, public services and Scotland’s constitutional future.
