Swinney says Scottish independence referendum could be held in 2028

Scottish Independence Referendum Could Take Place in 2028, Says Swinney

John Swinney, the First Minister of Scotland, has suggested that a second independence referendum might occur by 2028. During a BBC Scotland Debate Night in Paisley Town Hall, he emphasized that such a vote on the nation’s constitutional future could happen within two years. The SNP leader highlighted the importance of empowering Scotland’s people to determine their own destiny.

“The people of Scotland are entitled to decide their constitutional future,” Swinney stated, adding that the country is trapped in a “constitutional logjam” that could be resolved by an SNP majority. He urged voters to provide a strong mandate for the party to take control of Scotland’s direction.

Political Leaders Clash on Independence and National Issues

While Swinney pushed for a referendum, other leaders voiced opposing views. Ross Greer, co-leader of the Scottish Greens, argued that Scotland’s future should rest in its own hands, calling it “profoundly anti-democratic” for Westminster to block another vote. Labour’s Anas Sarwar, however, claimed the upcoming election is focused on practical governance rather than independence, stressing the need for a functioning government to tackle healthcare, jobs, and living costs.

Conservative chief Russell Findlay warned that breaking up the UK would lead to “an unmitigated disaster,” while Reform UK’s Malcolm Offord described a second referendum as “divisive” but hinted it could be considered if independence support reached 60%. Alex Cole-Hamilton of the Scottish Liberal Democrats dismissed the idea, stating he had not considered it seriously due to his focus on other priorities.

UK Government’s Role and Prime Minister’s Stance

A second referendum would require approval from the UK government. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has yet to envision such a vote during his tenure at 10 Downing Street. Earlier, Health Secretary Wes Streeting echoed this sentiment, telling LBC that the country had “had enough of chaos” and no further referendum was planned.

During the debate, leaders also addressed key issues like immigration, the NHS, and energy. Offord argued that Holyrood should concentrate on improving people’s lives, but he acknowledged that increased independence support could shift the situation. Meanwhile, the debate over immigration intensified, with Glasgow’s asylum seeker population—over 3,800—becoming a focal point.

Immigration Debate Intensifies

Control over immigration and borders remains with the UK government, yet it has become a central issue in the Holyrood election. Offord advocated for “cohesion” in Scottish communities, claiming some migrants were “jumping the queue” at the expense of locals. Findlay countered that cities like Glasgow are experiencing a “system at breaking point” due to overwhelming pressure on services.

Ross Greer criticized Offord, labeling him a “chancer” and urging more immigration to meet Scotland’s needs, particularly in the NHS and rural areas. Cole-Hamilton, meanwhile, accused Offord of dividing the public, pointing out that while small boat crossings are a problem, immigration is vital for addressing the “skills crisis.” Sarwar further took aim at Offord, suggesting his comments questioned loyalty to Scotland and targeted migrant communities.