Swinney insists ‘stars are aligning’ for Scottish independence

At the SNP conference in Aberdeen, Scottish First Minister John Swinney is set to say that 2026 marks a turning point in Scotland’s journey towards independence. He will point to support for self-determination from the first ministers of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, following their non-binding agreement opposing Westminster’s right to “block democracy.” The SNP won a record fifth consecutive term at the Scottish Parliament election in May, but fell short of the overall majority Swinney had sought to press for another referendum. His remarks follow UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s offer to work with the SNP on deeper devolution.