COMMENT: Renewed Optimism & Why the SNP Remains the Path to Independence
It is becoming increasingly clear that voting SNP remains the only viable way to achieve the goal of Scottish independence. Recent developments have demonstrated that, while the party has faced challenges, there are encouraging signs of focus, resilience, and progress that deserve support.
Encouraging Signs in the SNP’s Budget
The SNP’s latest budget announcement reflects a commitment to delivering for the people of Scotland even under challenging circumstances. Despite tight financial constraints, the government has prioritised record NHS investment, the construction of more affordable homes, and bold measures to counteract Westminster-imposed austerity. Key among these is the abolition of the two-child benefit cap, demonstratong compassion and a focus on equality, and winter fuel payments to shield vulnerable families during a tough economic period.
These policies showcase a government that is still serious about governing effectively for Scotland and addressing the immediate needs of its citizens. For independence supporters, these actions are a reminder of the SNP’s ability to marry social justice with pragmatic governance - qualities essential for leading Scotland toward independence.
Positive Steps to Address Concerns
The SNP has also begun addressing concerns raised by members and supporters. They have, for instance, made a bold commitment to climate action, reflected in increased spending on green initiatives in the budget. Stephen Flynn, the SNP's Westminster leader, has also rescinded his controversial plan to stand as both an MP and MSP, signalling responsiveness to party members' concerns.
With a budget that speaks to the priorities of the Scottish public and the SNP membership, the party appears to be listening and adjusting its approach. These actions suggest a renewed focus on uniting its base and delivering on the key promises of progressive governance and independence.
The Greens: Falling Short of the Moment
While I once considered the Scottish Greens as a potential force for driving independence, their recent actions suggest otherwise. Their opposition to vital infrastructure projects, such as the dualling of the A9, demonstrates a lack of pragmatic thinking. Dismissing the project as “climate-wrecking,” in the words of Ross Greer, ignores their importance for regional development and building a green economy - a critical component of Scotland’s future as an independent nation.
Or take their campaign to make ecocide illegal… this feels more like symbolic posturing than a pathway to meaningful climate action. Building windfarms or sustainable public transport is not environmentally pure. Nor should we pretend it is.
Whilst ‘ecocide’ refers the more extreme cases of environmental damage, deliberating over what we mean by ‘damage’ and wasting precious parliamentary time on legal definitions is ridiculously counterproductive. You just know Conservatives will have a field-day with this and, more importantly, re-affirm the ‘woke nonsense’ stereotype of climate action to those switching off. The messaging is all wrong.
Scotland needs actionable, scalable policies that address both environmental and economic needs. The Scottish Greens, to me, are falling short on suggestions here.
The lack of urgency and alignment with the broader independence movement on the ground is also a problem. While the Greens have pushed for greater pressure on the SNP, their strategy in doing so does not inspire confidence as a party ready to lead Scotland.
Counterproductive Criticism
The Scottish Greens’ reaction to the SNP’s budget has been another disappointing development. Instead of rallying behind the SNP during challenging times, they criticised the budget for not going far enough in areas such as climate action, child poverty alleviation, and local council funding. While these are commendable concerns, their critique fails to acknowledge the constraints imposed by Westminster’s control over Scotland’s finances.
The SNP’s budget already delivers progressive measures, including higher taxes on holiday homes, investments in green infrastructure, and record funding for public services. The Greens’ continued focus on criticising rather than collaborating is creating unnecessary divisions within the independence movement.
…and those whose political passion is Scottish independence, first, foremost and for always, are taking note.
Comments