What's happened
The SNP's recent claims to champion local councils have drawn criticism, particularly following the launch of the Council of Nations and Regions, which excluded Scottish councils. Critics argue that the SNP has historically undermined local governance, raising questions about their newfound advocacy.
Why it matters
What the papers say
Alistair Carmichael in The Scotsman critiques the SNP's recent claims, stating, 'The SNP have zero credibility to make this argument,' highlighting their historical undermining of local councils. Stewart McDonald, also in The Scotsman, points out the muddled approach to devolution, noting that 'this is a problem that arises from using devolution to mean two different things.' BBC News adds that the new Council of Nations and Regions is not as powerful as envisioned, with SNP leaders expressing concerns over their cities' exclusion. These contrasting views illustrate the ongoing debate about the SNP's role in local governance and devolution.
How we got here
The SNP has been in power in Scotland for 17 years, during which local councils have seen their powers diminished. Recent discussions around the Council of Nations and Regions have highlighted the exclusion of Scottish cities, prompting scrutiny of the SNP's commitment to local governance.
Common question
-
What are the criticisms against the SNP's local governance claims?
The SNP's recent claims to support local councils have sparked significant debate and criticism. With the launch of the Council of Nations and Regions, which notably excluded Scottish councils, many are questioning the SNP's commitment to local governance. This page explores the various criticisms and historical context surrounding the SNP's approach to local councils.
More on these topics
-
John Ramsay Swinney is a Scottish politician serving as Deputy First Minister of Scotland since 2014 and Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills since 2016.
-
Sir Keir Rodney Starmer KCB QC MP is a British politician and former lawyer who has served as Leader of the Labour Party and Leader of the Opposition since 2020. He has been Member of Parliament for Holborn and St Pancras since 2015.
-
The Scottish National Party is a Scottish nationalist and social-democratic political party in Scotland. The SNP supports and campaigns for Scottish independence within the European Union, with a platform based on civic nationalism.