John Swinney, the incoming first minister of Scotland, has announced plans to establish a coordinated alliance with nationalist leaders in Wales and Northern Ireland. This partnership aims to create a unified opposition to UK government spending and Labour’s policies regarding the cost of living.
A Unified Nationalist Front
Swinney, who is scheduled to be sworn in as first minister next week, has already held discussions with Michelle O’Neill, the Sinn Féin first minister of Northern Ireland. O’Neill expressed enthusiasm for the three nationalist-led governments to work in concert, despite the limits on her own authority due to joint governance with the Democratic Unionist party in Stormont.
The alliance is expected to include Rhun ap Iorwerth, the leader of Plaid Cymru, who is expected to be appointed first minister of Wales following a first-time victory in the Senedd elections on Thursday. Ap Iorwerth described the victory as a “new beginning” for Wales, asserting that a determined national voice would prevent any UK prime minister from turning a blind eye to Welsh needs.
The leaders intend to challenge the UK government’s use of the Internal Markets Act, which was designed to harmonise business and trade regulations after Brexit. Swinney argued that using the act to impose policies “over the heads” of devolved administrations causes “fury,” suggesting that a shared agenda could provide more leverage.
Political Shifts in Holyrood and the Senedd
This strategic alliance emerges alongside a volatile political landscape in both Holyrood and the Senedd. Reform UK has secured a second-place position in both parliaments, with the party winning 17 seats in Holyrood—tying with Scottish Labour for joint second place.
This result grants Reform’s Scottish leader, Malcolm Offord, the right to ask the opening questions during first minister’s questions. Reform UK may be eligible for committee convenership posts.
Constitutional Tensions and Policy Clashes
Swinney has confirmed he will table a draft bill next week requesting powers for Holyrood to stage a second independence referendum. While he acknowledged the SNP failed to achieve an overall majority, he noted that the addition of 15 Scottish Green party MSPs creates the largest pro-independence majority in Holyrood’s history.
Tensions have also flared between Swinney and Malcolm Offord. Swinney has refused to collaborate with Reform UK beyond basic legal requirements, a move Offord described as “arrogant, petty and deeply undemocratic.”
Offord has further criticized a potential alliance between the SNP and the “extremist Greens,” citing concerns over open borders, the abolition of prisons, and the legalization of drugs. However, the Scottish Greens have clarified their positions, stating they seek to decriminalize illegal drug use and end the “hostile environment” strategy, though they do not support open borders or the abolition of prisons.
Future Outlook
The nationalist alliance may focus its efforts on pressing Whitehall to recognize a “fundamentally different position” for the UK, specifically regarding the merits of rejoining the EU to combat economic decline. The leaders are also likely to continue their advocacy for lifting the two-child benefit cap.
While UK government sources have indicated they are unperturbed by this collaboration, viewing different parties in different administrations as the “very nature of democracy,” the coordinated effort could lead to increased friction between the devolved nations and the central government in London.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Internal Markets Act?
It is a measure designed to harmonise trade and business regulations within the UK following Brexit, which devolved leaders argue is being used to impose policies without their consent.
Does the SNP have a mandate for a second independence referendum?
While the SNP did not achieve an overall majority, Swinney points to the 15 Scottish Green MSPs as creating the largest ever pro-independence majority, though he has avoided claiming This represents a “cast-iron mandate.”
What is the current standing of Reform UK in Holyrood?
Reform UK came joint second in the elections with 17 seats, tying with Scottish Labour.
Do you believe a coordinated front between nationalist leaders will effectively change UK government policy?
