LONDON — Scottish First Minister John Swinney said he believes supporters of Scottish independence can win a future referendum, suggesting a new vote could take place as early as 2028.
Swinney made the remarks as Scottish National Party campaigns ahead of next month’s Scottish Parliament election, where the party is seeking a majority it says would strengthen demands for another referendum.
“I think we are very close to winning Scottish independence. I just have to make it happen,” Swinney said.
The last independence referendum in 2014 saw 55% vote to remain in the United Kingdom, while 45% backed separation.
Swinney said political conditions had changed significantly since then, particularly after Britain’s exit from the European Union, adding that voters may now be less persuaded by arguments against independence.
“I have persuaded many people to change the way they vote,” he said. “I think that is how we will land it, by being persuasive.”
Asked whether he believed he would win a future referendum, Swinney replied: “Yes.”
He said Scotland could become independent within around 18 months of a successful vote, potentially by the end of 2030.
Swinney also said he would seek to continue leading the country, adding that he would aim to become “the first prime minister of an independent Scotland.”
He criticized rival parties, calling Labour’s record in government a “total and utter shambles,” while saying the Conservatives were losing ground to Reform UK and describing the Liberal Democrats as irrelevant.
Despite political tensions, Swinney said the SNP campaign was positive and would present a hopeful and optimistic case for independence.
A YouGov survey published on April 10 projected the SNP was on course to secure a majority government in the May 7 election.
The poll also forecast losses for Labour and the Conservatives, while Reform UK could emerge as the second-largest party.
Source: Saudi Gazette