SENIOR Labour politicians are considering a possible pact with other Unionist parties in an attempt to lock the SNP out of power, according to reports.
The Scottish Sun has revealed that top figures in the party are discussing a potential move to tactically withdraw candidates to give Unionist candidates the best chance of winning in future elevtions.
Scottish Labour are stronger in the Central Belt, for example. The LibDems frequently win Highland seats, whilst the Tories have traditionally done well in the North East.
The thought is that by withdrawing candidates tactically, it could lead to the SNP losing more seats.
However, it is unclear if such a pact would include Reform UK.
A Labour source told the newspaper: “It could be that a Unionist ticket is the way forward. It would mean playing the SNP at their own game.”
The potential plans would be similar to the pro-Union pact pitched by George Galloway through his All for Unity party for the 2021 Holyrood election, which was ultimately ignored and his party failed to win a seat.
Tactical voting in the 2021 Holyrood election, however, led to a surge in split-tickets – with people spreading their votes across different parties.
For example, the Scottish Election Study found that 60% of Labour constituency voters backed the Tories in the regional list.
The Scottish Tories also attempted a similar pact for the 2024 General Election but it was ultimately rejected by Scottish Labour.
The SNP have been approached for comment.
