STEPHEN Flynn issued a stark warning to Labour leader Keir Starmer, saying he will feel it at the ballot box if he doesn’t commit to giving Scots a second independence referendum.
Speaking at the Institute for Government on Tuesday, the SNP’s Westminster leader said Keir Starmer’s Labour party are “likely” heading towards a minority government at the next General Election, with reports suggesting it could be taking place in the autumn of 2024.
In that eventuality, Flynn added: “Our asks will be very straightforward and our hand will be very strong.”
“The people of Scotland need to have the right to determine their own future and Holyrood should be empowered to do that.
“Over the course of the next year to 18 months, I think that’s something we’re going to see borne out in the polls.”
“The challenge then is for Keir Starmer to either say that he won’t give the people of Scotland that. If he doesn’t want to accept that then I’m sure it will be reflected in the ballot box.”
Flynn also demanded in his keynote speech that powers over energy are devolved to Holyrood, and challenged Labour to commit to the policy.
Flynn said: “Time and time again, when it comes to energy policy, Scotland has been let down and we can’t afford to be let down again in the future.”
Most aspects of energy are reserved to Westminster, though Holyrood has control over planning regulations which can affect renewable power.
The MP for Aberdeen South clarified that what he said on Tuesday doesn’t mean that he would back a Labour government.
He added: “What I’m being explicit about is that there are key policy areas where I would want to see the Labour Party deliver upon.
“That’s the devolution of powers relating to energy, to employment law.
“We could have discussions about single market access to reset that relationship with the European Union.
“But also, importantly, the right for the people of Scotland to determine their own future.”
