Daily Record Political Editor Paul Hutcheon says the influence of Reform in the next Parliament is a growing political story.
The scrutiny of Anas Sarwar ’s position on Reform UK shows the hellish situation he finds himself in. Becoming the next First Minister seemed to be a foregone conclusion after the Labour’s general election triumph.
Sixty five votes are needed at Holyrood to guarantee victory in the vote for First Minister and Sarwar appeared a shoo-in. Plan A was to rely on the combined total of Labour and Lib Dem MSPs without the reputational hassle of turning to the Tories. If some of the latest polls are accurate, Labour are miles behind the SNP but there is still a chance of a pro-UK majority at Holyrood. The only way for Sarwar to replace Swinney in these circumstances would be to have the Lib Dems, Tories and Reform unite behind him.
His language on cooperation with Reform - no “coalitions or agreements” - is vague. No one is seriously suggesting Labour would invite Reform MSPs to sit round the Cabinet table, nor would they ever strike a Bute House Agreement with Farage.
Anas Sarwar Conservative Party Labour Party Liberal Democrat Party Scottish Labour Scottish National Party General Election
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Anas Sarwar accuses Nigel Farage of 'disastrous' plan to end NHSIn a interview with the Record, the Scottish Labour leader said he understands why people are backing 'divisive' parties, but insisted the solution is to address people's frustrations.
Read more »
Swinney Accuses Sarwar of 'Opening the Door' for FarageJohn Swinney criticizes Anas Sarwar for leaving open the possibility of working with Nigel Farage's Reform UK, fearing it would allow Farage to influence Scottish politics. Swinney insists on shutting the door on any cooperation with Farage, while Sarwar maintains he will not form coalitions but considers individual policies on a case-by-case basis.
Read more »
Anas Sarwar compares SNP to Reform and says both parties feed off 'hopelessness'The Scottish Labour leader ruled out working with Nigel Farage's party after the Holyrood election next year - but was pushed on exactly what he meant.
Read more »
Anas Sarwar needs to downplay Labour brand if he is to seize agenda from SNPDaily Record Political Editor Paul Hutcheon says being seen to 'stand up for Scotland' is essential for anyone wanting to be First Minister.
Read more »
Sarwar Rules Out Formal Coalition With Farage's Reform UKScottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar has ruled out formal coalitions or agreements with Nigel Farage's Reform UK after the upcoming Holyrood election. While leaving the door open to looser deals, Sarwar compared both the SNP and Reform to feeding on the 'politics of hopelessness', arguing that voters are drawn to them out of disillusionment and a belief that governments don't work. Recent polls suggest the SNP is on course for victory, while Reform is poised for a major breakthrough, potentially forcing Sarwar to rely on their MSPs if he aspires to become First Minister.
Read more »
Swinney Accuses Sarwar of Opening Door for FarageScottish First Minister John Swinney has criticized Anas Sarwar, the leader of Scottish Labour, for potentially allowing Nigel Farage and his Reform UK party to influence Scottish politics. Swinney fears Sarwar might be forced to cooperate with Farage to become First Minister, despite ruling out formal coalitions. He argues that such a scenario would be damaging to Scottish society.
Read more »