Scottish Parliament Backs Call for Second Independence Referendum

The Scottish Parliament passed a motion calling on the UK government to transfer powers to Holyrood for a second independence referendum. The vote was supported by SNP and Green MSPs and opposed by Labour, Reform, Conservative and Liberal Democrat members.

The motion stated that the recent Holyrood election result gave a mandate for decisions about Scotland's future to be taken in Scotland. It also listed government goals on child poverty, the NHS, economic growth, living costs and climate targets.

Debate and responses First Minister John Swinney told MSPs that independence would move Scotland from "political chaos and economic stagnation" to "greater security and prosperity" as an EU member. " Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar said Swinney had an "obsession" with independence and dismissed the idea of a "fresh start" after nearly 20 years of SNP government.

He referenced the embezzlement case involving former SNP chief executive Peter Murrell. Conservative leader Russell Findlay listed concerns over the NHS, education, taxes and the North Sea oil and gas sector. He called on the SNP to drop its focus on independence.

" Reform UK Scotland leader Malcolm Offord said MSPs should not discuss another referendum for ten years. Scottish Green co-leader Ross Greer said independence could help with energy costs and poverty reduction but added that existing powers could be used more effectively on the NHS and climate policy.

UK government position A Downing Street spokesperson said the UK government does not support Scottish independence or a referendum. The statement added that governments should focus on economic growth, living costs and public services rather than division. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer previously said he did not envisage another referendum during his time in office.