Scottish Green MSP and co-leader
Scottish Green MSP Q Manivannan has faced widespread condemnation after saying rape is a spectrum, prompting apologies and calls for leadership from Green co-leaders. The comments, made in a podcast last year, are being revisited as survivors’ groups reiterate there is no hierarchy of rape and demand accountability.
The Scottish government has published a draft independence referendum bill to set out the proposed question and eligible voters. Reform UK and other critics argue about the threshold needed for a fresh vote, with the SNP’s and Greens' support waning in recent elections. Westminster remains firm that another referendum is off limits.
Holyrood has backed steps to require environmental impact assessments for all new data centres above 50MW, while rejecting a Green motion for an immediate moratorium. Ministers say guidance for planning authorities will be published by Christmas, and decisions will not be made until it is in place.