Swinney and Sarwar need to collaborate to counter Reform’s rising influence in Scotland
Edinburgh: The rivalry between the SNP and Scottish Labour has been intense. They often clash over independence, which complicates their relationship. Personality conflicts among leaders have made things worse.
Interestingly, SNP and Labour share many policy views outside of independence. Both parties lean center-left and support redistributing wealth to help the less fortunate.
They also agree on the need for active government, public services, and equality. Jeane Freeman, a former SNP health secretary, suggests a potential partnership after the next Holyrood election.
Recent polls show Nigel Farage’s Reform party could make significant gains next year. This right-wing party aims to disrupt the parliament from the start.
If SNP and Labour don’t collaborate, Farage and Tory leader Russell Findlay could gain power. Sarwar and Swinney should focus on shared issues instead.
Both parties support a national care service but failed to create a joint plan. Freeman called this failure “sad,” but it was preventable.
In recent budget discussions, the SNP, Lib Dems, and Greens worked together successfully. The next parliament needs Sarwar and Swinney to cooperate similarly.
Shattered glass
The deposit return scheme started as a good idea but quickly fell apart. The rush to implement it without addressing smaller retailers’ concerns led to its collapse.
The aftermath of this failed scheme continues. Biffa, a waste management company, can now sue the Scottish Government. If they win, taxpayers might owe £166 million.
This would be a tough blow for a recycling initiative that had potential, especially with public finances under pressure.
Given the initial support, the government should have built consensus with businesses. Instead, they missed a big opportunity and could face even more costs from this costly mistake.
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