The SNP has unveiled its manifesto in Edinburgh, emphasizing “major investment” in the NHS, independence, and Brexit. Party leader John Swinney stated that if the SNP secures a majority of Scottish seats on July 4, it would initiate independence talks, aiming to build a “fairer country” and a “more prosperous economy” through independence.
Our live coverage is available at the top of this page, with BBC specialists analyzing the party’s pledges. Much of the manifesto is designed to appeal to the SNP’s core supporters, featuring plans to “empower” independence negotiations and a commitment to “reverse Brexit.”
While we can evaluate the feasibility of these policies now, they resonate strongly with SNP sympathizers. There are also specific proposals for the north-east of Scotland, including a more accommodating stance on new oil and gas drilling and reservations about imposing severe windfall taxes on the industry.
However, even with a strong performance, SNP MPs will need support from other parties to implement their policies. Many of their pledges are more aspirational than actionable. The SNP argues that, being independent of broader UK parties, they are better positioned to represent Scottish interests.
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