Swinney says Scottish independence referendum could be held in 2028

Scottish Independence Referendum Possible by 2028, Says First Minister

John Swinney, the First Minister of Scotland, suggested a second independence referendum could occur as early as 2028. During a BBC Scotland Debate Night event in Paisley Town Hall, he emphasized that such a vote on Scotland’s constitutional status is “perfectly conceivable” within two years. The discussion brought together leaders from various parties, each offering contrasting views on the nation’s future.

SNP and Green Leaders Advocate for Referendum

Swinney argued that an SNP majority in the next parliament would help resolve the “constitutional logjam” preventing a second vote. He urged voters to support the SNP to secure control over Scotland’s destiny. Meanwhile, Ross Greer, co-leader of the Scottish Greens, stated that Scotland’s future should be decided by its own people, calling Westminster’s refusal to allow another referendum “profoundly anti-democratic.”

“The people of Scotland are entitled to decide their own constitutional future,” Swinney asserted.

“We do not have enough immigration to meet the country’s needs,” Greer remarked.

Labour and Conservative Leaders Push Back

Anas Sarwar, leader of the Scottish Labour Party, framed the upcoming election as a focus on practical issues like the NHS, job creation, and cost of living. “This election is not about independence—it’s about building a government that works for the people,” he said. Russell Findlay, the Conservative Party’s chief, warned that splitting the UK would lead to “an unmitigated disaster,” urging Swinney to prioritize Scotland’s place within the union.

“By every measure, you’ve been distracted and Scotland has got worse,” Findlay criticized.

Reform UK and Liberal Democrats Offer Mixed Views

Malcolm Offord, leader of Reform UK in Scotland, described another referendum as “divisive,” though he acknowledged it could happen if independence support reached 60%. Alex Cole-Hamilton of the Scottish Liberal Democrats admitted he hadn’t considered a second vote, citing his concentration on other priorities like the NHS and education.

“People want Holyrood to focus on improving lives,” Offord stated.

“Trying to win an election based on dividing the people of Scotland is a mistake,” Cole-Hamilton remarked.

UK Government’s Stance and Political Clashes

The UK government must approve any second referendum, but Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said he cannot envision one during his tenure. Health Secretary Wes Streeting echoed this, telling LBC that “this country has had enough of chaos.” During the debate, leaders also debated immigration, healthcare, and energy, with tensions highlighting differing priorities.

Immigration as a Divisive Issue

Immigration has become a central topic in the Holyrood election campaign. While Offord criticized the influx of migrants, claiming some were “jumping the queue,” Greer defended the need for more immigrants to address NHS and social care challenges. Glasgow, home to over 3,800 asylum seekers—the most of any city outside London—has faced strain on local services, with Council leader Susan Aitken noting a shortage of temporary housing.

“People in Glasgow are seeing a system at breaking point,” Findlay said.

“The problem is we do not have enough immigration to meet the country’s needs,” Greer added.