Swinney Defends Food Price Cap Plan Ahead of First Minister Vote

SNP leader John Swinney said his plan to cap prices on up to 50 basic food items is a response to people struggling to afford groceries. He told the BBC Today programme that he has a public health responsibility to ensure access to an affordable nutritious diet.

The policy would require large supermarkets to limit the cost of items such as milk, eggs, cheese and rice. The SNP also pledged to cap bus fares at £2 and expand childcare.

The Scottish Retail Consortium described the food price measure as a gimmick. Its representative Ewan MacDonald-Russell said the policy could put small shops not covered by the legislation at a competitive disadvantage. Swinney said engagement with producers and retailers would be crucial to make the plan work.

He added that he would need to work with other parties in the Scottish Parliament and with UK ministers because the SNP fell short of a majority.

The proposed legislation would require changes to the UK Internal Markets Act of 2020. Swinney said he is entering discussions with the aim of finding a solution that helps people afford their shopping. Later on Tuesday, Swinney will stand for first minister in a vote of MSPs.

The SNP won 58 seats in the 7 May election, while Labour and Reform UK each won 17 seats. Swinney's appointment is expected to be confirmed by royal warrant before he is sworn in at the Court of Session on Wednesday.