Only SNP vote can bring ‘fresh start of independence’ and block Farage – Swinney

SNP leader John Swinney has said only a vote for his party in the upcoming Holyrood election can deliver “the fresh start of independence” while thwarting Nigel Farage’s plans to set up shop in Scotland.

Later on Sunday, First Minister Mr Swinney will make a campaign visit to Aberdeen, Banffshire, Buchan Coast, and Aberdeenshire West, where he is expected to discuss the SNP’s plans for a £2 bus fare cap, the cost-of-living crisis, and a cap for the price of essential groceries.

Ahead of the visit, he said: “With just days left in this campaign, it is clear that a historic result for Scotland is within touching distance.

“But we have to grasp it and I will be working harder than ever to take our positive message to all of Scotland between now and polling day.

“As First Minister, I want to take action to support people – reducing the cost of your daily commute, capping the cost of essential foods in supermarkets and bringing down electricity bills with the fresh start of independence.

“The SNP wants to lower your bills – and the other parties are trying to stop us.

“They want people to vote for an opposition to stop things happening, I am asking people to vote for an SNP government to get things done.

“The best way to ensure we can deliver is by electing a majority SNP government that supports people with the cost of living, locks out Nigel Farage and delivers the fresh start of independence.”

Mr Swinney added: “But we have to make it happen.

“That opportunity is in Scotland’s hands and on Thursday we can grasp it by voting SNP for a government on Scotland’s side and for my reliable, trusted leadership that will support people with the cost of living.”

Reform UK Scotland was approached for comment.