SNP’s Keith Brown Urges Labour to Respect Devolution by 2026

Keith Brown, the depute leader of the Scottish National Party (SNP), has called on the UK Labour Party to address its perceived “disrespect for devolution” by the year 2026. In a letter addressed to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, Brown highlighted several concerns regarding Labour’s commitments to devolved powers, particularly affecting Scotland.

Brown expressed disappointment over Labour’s failure to uphold its promises, specifically mentioning the funding allocations for the fishing industry. He criticized recent changes to inheritance tax that he claimed disproportionately impact family farms in Scotland. Moreover, Brown noted that the UK Government had utilized the Internal Market Act to circumvent the Scottish Parliament, particularly through initiatives like the Pride in Place programme, which provides financial support to various communities.

In response to Brown’s allegations, Douglas Alexander, the Scottish Secretary, countered that the current Labour Government has delivered the largest budget settlement in the history of devolution to the Scottish Parliament. He accused the SNP of fabricating constitutional grievances and failing to enhance public services in Scotland.

“Instead of manufacturing constitutional grievances, SNP politicians like Keith Brown should be answering the question being asked by so many Scots as the new year begins: ‘Where’s the money gone, John?’” Alexander stated. He emphasized the need for the SNP to focus on improving local services rather than deflecting blame.

Brown’s comments reflect a growing tension between the SNP and Labour regarding the management of devolved powers. He asserted, “Before coming to power, Labour talked a good game on devolution, but their actions since then have shown otherwise. Whether it’s cutting funding for fishing, their National Insurance hikes, or maintaining Boris Johnson’s hated Internal Market Act, the idea that Labour is ‘the party of devolution’ is now totally laughable.”

He further indicated that Labour’s treatment of devolution must change by 2026, underscoring the SNP’s position that the future of Scotland’s Parliament can only be secured through independence. Brown pointed out that some Labour members in the Welsh Senedd had already acknowledged these issues, contrasting their response with that of Labour’s Scottish representatives.

The exchange between Brown and Alexander highlights the ongoing debate about the balance of powers between the UK Government and the devolved administrations. As the political landscape evolves, both parties are under scrutiny to fulfill their commitments to the electorate, particularly concerning issues that resonate deeply with Scottish constituents.