Senior representatives from the six main political parties in Scotland engaged in a heated debate over critical issues such as independence, the cost of living, and immigration during a special episode of Scotland Tonight. The programme, moderated by STV’s political editor, Colin MacKay, featured participants from the Scottish National Party (SNP), Scottish Conservatives, Scottish Labour, Scottish Greens, Scottish Liberal Democrats, and Reform UK as they outlined their party priorities ahead of the upcoming elections in May 2024.
Independence Takes Centre Stage
The debate prominently featured discussions about a potential second referendum on Scottish independence. Keith Brown, deputy leader of the SNP, reiterated his party’s argument that winning a majority of seats in the Scottish Parliament—specifically 65—should be seen as a mandate for another vote. “It happened before, it sets a precedent, of course it can happen,” he stated confidently. Brown emphasized a vision for a “fresh start for Scotland” through independence and rejoining the European Union.
In contrast, Jackie Baillie, deputy leader of the Scottish Labour Party, asserted that public sentiment no longer supports another referendum. “After 20 years of the SNP, people do not want another referendum,” she argued, highlighting the public’s desire for improvements in healthcare and education instead. Baillie pointed to polling data indicating that independence ranks low on the list of priorities for many Scots.
Discussions surrounding independence also involved Gillian Mackay, co-leader of the Scottish Greens, who revealed her change of heart since voting against independence in 2014. “We’re in a different place now,” she said, appealing to the younger generation who did not have a say in the original referendum. Mackay believes a fresh vote is warranted, especially in light of the promises made during the Brexit campaign.
Cost of Living and Immigration Under Scrutiny
The cost of living crisis emerged as another focal point during the debate. Craig Hoy, representing the Scottish Conservatives, stated that his party’s primary goal is to alleviate financial burdens on households. “We need to put more money in people’s pockets,” he asserted, highlighting the urgency of addressing economic hardships faced by many Scots.
In response, Alex Cole-Hamilton, leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats, emphasized that the solution to Scotland’s challenges does not lie in another referendum. “For all of the questions that Scotland currently faces, the answer to none of them is another independence referendum,” he stated firmly, reiterating the need to focus on practical solutions to pressing issues.
The immigration debate was equally vigorous, particularly with Lord Malcolm Offord of Reform UK defending his party’s strict stance on the issue. He argued that the party reflects the concerns of disadvantaged communities feeling pressure on local services. “Reform is reflecting a movement,” he noted, pushing back against accusations of promoting division.
Hoy downplayed the notion that Reform had outdone the Conservatives on immigration policy, asserting the need for reasoned debate rather than hasty solutions. He remarked, “We have to have this in a reasoned debate, and we have to come up with practicable, workable solutions.”
The discussion culminated with a broader examination of the Scottish economy, where Mackay argued for a fairer taxation system that would ensure adequate funding for vital public services. “It’s right that the wealthy pay what they should so we can have those good public services,” she said, stressing that taxation should not be viewed negatively.
Conversely, Offord criticized the Scottish Parliament for neglecting economic growth over the past 25 years, stating, “For 25 years there’s only been two things Holyrood has done: wrangle about the constitution and spend, spend, spend.”
The lively debate showcased the diverse perspectives of Scotland’s political landscape as candidates prepare for the pivotal elections. The full discussion can be viewed on the STV Player, providing further insight into the issues that will shape Scotland’s future.
