What's happened
The SNP and Scottish Greens power-sharing deal is at risk after the Scottish government abandoned its 2030 climate target and paused the prescription of puberty blockers for under-18s. First Minister Humza Yousaf called an emergency cabinet meeting amid speculation over the deal's future. Scottish Green co-leader Patrick Harvie stated he would resign if the party ends the agreement, while the Alba Party filed a no-confidence motion against him.
Why it matters
The potential collapse of the power-sharing deal between the SNP and Scottish Greens could have significant implications for climate policy and healthcare services in Scotland. The disagreement over climate targets and gender services highlights the challenges of coalition governance and the delicate balance of priorities between the parties involved.
What the papers say
The SNP's decision to scrap the 2030 climate target and pause puberty blockers has led to internal strife within the coalition. While Patrick Harvie emphasizes the importance of remaining in government to enact Green values, the Alba Party's motion of no confidence reflects broader discontent with the handling of gender services. The differing perspectives underscore the complex dynamics at play within the Scottish political landscape.
How we got here
The power-sharing agreement between the SNP and Scottish Greens was initially formed to advance progressive policies in Scotland. However, tensions arose when the Scottish government abandoned its ambitious climate target and faced criticism over gender services. The disagreement over these key issues has strained the coalition and raised questions about the future of the partnership.
Common question
More on these topics
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Patrick Harvie is a Scottish politician who has served as co-leader of the Scottish Greens since 2008. He has been Member of the Scottish Parliament for the Glasgow region since 2003.
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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.
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Rainbow Greens was a green political party in Italy.
It was founded in May 1989 by splinters of Proletarian Democracy and some leading Radicals.
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Humza Haroon Yousaf MSP is a Scottish National Party politician who has been Cabinet Secretary for Justice since 26 June 2018 and the Member of the Scottish Parliament for Glasgow Pollok since 2016.