SNP Manifesto Launch: Swinney Vows to End Austerity, Boost NHS Funding, and Push for Scottish Independence

'Children, not conflict': SNP advocates for the removal of the two-child limit on benefits and commits to increasing NHS funding

During the unveiling of his party's manifesto, First Minister John Swinney stated that supporting his party's candidates would also "ramp up the pressure" on the UK government to allow another vote on Scottish independence.

Political correspondent @NifS

Wednesday, June 19, 2024, at 12

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During its manifesto unveiling, the Scottish National Party has demanded the elimination of the two-child limit on welfare benefits and advocated for significant additional funding for the NHS, committing to put an end to 14 years of austerity measures.

Addressing an audience in Edinburgh, First Minister John Swinney stated that his party was the sole major political group advocating for a halt to the reductions in public services. He criticized the "arbitrary Tory financial regulations embraced by Labour," asserting that they would lead to further severe reductions.

He pledged to "safeguard our public amenities and cherished National Health Service," alongside eliminating the Trident nuclear defense system and dissolving the House of Lords.

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"Government chosen by voters, not friends in fancy robes," Mr. Swinney stated. "Remove the limit on two children, not the limit on bankers' bonuses. Children, not explosives. And focus on investment, not reductions.

"I am convinced that these options reflect the principles that many of us hold dear. These are the principles of Scotland. Casting a ballot for the SNP and endorsing this manifesto means supporting these shared values."

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The premier further emphasized that Scottish independence continues to be a central tenet of their ideology, asserting that the SNP's victory in the 2021 Holyrood elections provided the party with a democratic mandate to pursue another referendum.

He stated that if the party won the majority of parliamentary seats in the north on July 4th, it would increase the pressure on Westminster to approve another referendum.

Despite repeated questioning by reporters, Mr. Swinney declined to comment on whether the SNP would reconsider its position should it not secure the majority of Scottish seats.

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He stated, "The people residing in Scotland should be the ones making decisions about its future because nobody else has the same level of concern or will manage its affairs better than those who call it home."

"Seeking autonomy not as an end in itself, but as a means to empower us to safeguard our healthcare system and support individuals in difficult periods. We strive for independence to enhance our economic strength, improve overall well-being, and ensure a more prosperous future for Scotland—a future that is shaped by and for the Scottish people."

Discover further: What pledges are being made by each party? Who are the major contributors to political campaigns? Get acquainted with Stephen Flynn, the SNP's leader in Westminster. Understanding Voter ID requirements.

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The 32-page document detailed the party's key priorities and commitments, among other points.

• Re-entering the European Union

• Transferring authority to develop a tailored immigration framework for Scotland

• Calling for an urgent halt to hostilities in Gaza

• Advocating for complete restitution for WASPI women

• Eliminating zero-hour contracts and fire/rehire tactics

• Abandoning the government's Rwanda proposal

• Decriminalizing the possession of drugs for personal consumption

• Preserving the triple lock on pensions

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The political group advocated for an annual increase of no less than £16 billion for the NHS in England, which would also lead to an additional £1.6 billion for NHS Scotland.

Mr. Swinney stated that SNP MPs plan to collaborate with progressive politicians from southern regions to advocate for increased funding. They also urge the UK government to equalize the pay agreements provided to NHS staff in Scotland, where strikes were successfully averted.

He also pledged to put forward a bill to "maintain the NHS under public control," providing "a legal assurance for a health service that is owned and run by the public."

"He emphasized the unwavering stance of the SNP on healthcare, stating, 'The NHS will always be protected from privatization.'"

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