Swinney says Scottish independence referendum could be held in 2028
Scottish Independence Referendum Could Be Held as Early as 2028, Says Swinney
First Minister John Swinney has proposed that Scotland may hold a second independence referendum by 2028, asserting that such a vote on the nation’s constitutional status is “perfectly conceivable” within two years. During a BBC Scotland Debate Night special in Paisley Town Hall, Swinney highlighted the need for a decision on Scotland’s future, emphasizing that the country is trapped in a “constitutional logjam” that could be resolved by an SNP majority.
The debate featured sharp exchanges among leaders, with Ross Greer of the Greens declaring that Scotland’s destiny should rest in its own hands. Meanwhile, Labour’s Anas Sarwar argued that the upcoming election was focused on creating a functional government rather than independence, while Conservative Russell Findlay warned against a potential breakup of the UK, calling it an “unmitigated disaster.”
“We’re not having one [referendum]”
Health Secretary Wes Streeting reiterated the UK government’s stance, stating to LBC that another vote was unlikely during his time in office. However, Swinney urged voters to support an SNP majority to secure “an emphatic mandate” for Scotland’s constitutional future.
Greer claimed that a majority of pro-independence MSPs in the next parliament would signal a clear mandate for a second referendum. He criticized Westminster for denying Scotland a second vote, arguing that independence could address critical challenges in the NHS and economy. In contrast, Reform UK’s Malcolm Offord admitted the referendum might happen if independence support surged to 60%, though he called it “divisive.”
Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton emphasized that the government should prioritize other issues, such as the NHS and cost of living, over a referendum. The debate also touched on immigration, with Offord advocating for “cohesion” in Scottish communities, while Greer accused him of undermining the need for more immigrants to support vital services.
Immigration has become a central topic in the Holyrood election campaign, particularly as Glasgow houses more asylum seekers—around 3,800—than any city outside London. Susan Aitken, Glasgow City Council leader, noted that the city had “run out of temporary accommodation” last year, underscoring the strain on local resources.