Is the SNP Out of Ideas? Sarwar Claims Party is Knackered!

The Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar has launched a scathing attack on the SNP, branding the Scottish government as "knackered and out of touch". Speaking at Labour's UK conference, Sarwar highlighted Labour's achievements over the past 15 months while also criticising the SNP's handling of public services and their response to recent challenges. He urged party delegates to communicate Labour's successes more effectively and defended against the rising influence of Reform, led by Nigel Farage.

Last updated: 22 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Anas Sarwar accused the SNP of failing to utilise an additional £5.2bn in funding.
• Labour's achievements include a £10bn shipbuilding deal, securing thousands of jobs.
• Sarwar highlighted the growing NHS waiting lists in Scotland as a key failure of the SNP government.
• He denounced the "gutter politics" of Reform and its leader Nigel Farage.
• Sarwar expressed confidence that Labour could regain power in the upcoming Scottish elections.

A Strong Message from Labour's Leader

At the recent Labour conference in Liverpool, Anas Sarwar delivered a potent message aimed at invigorating his party's base and energising its supporters. He emphasised the need for Labour to be proud of its accomplishments while in power at Westminster, particularly over the past 15 months. Sarwar's remarks came amid a backdrop of declining support for Labour in Scotland, where recent polls have shown the party facing stiff competition from Reform.

Acknowledging Achievements

One of Sarwar's key points revolved around Labour's substantial achievements, particularly in the realm of economic stability and workers' rights. He proudly noted the £10bn shipbuilding order for the Clyde, which he described as the largest export deal in UK shipbuilding history. This deal is set to secure jobs for thousands of workers and ensure the future of shipbuilding in Glasgow.

"Fifteen years of work for Clyde shipbuilders – securing thousands of jobs," he proclaimed, urging the party to "not be shy" about its successes. Sarwar's enthusiasm stood in stark contrast to the current political landscape, where Labour's poll numbers have reportedly dipped.

Criticism of the SNP's Governance

In his speech, Sarwar did not hold back in his criticism of the SNP government, claiming they had squandered the additional £5.2bn funding provided since Labour's return to power. He highlighted alarming statistics regarding NHS waiting lists in Scotland, pointing out that there are currently more people waiting over two years for treatment in Glasgow than in the entirety of England. "What have they done with Labour's record budget settlement? 880,000 Scots on an NHS waiting list," he remarked, underscoring the growing crisis within the Scottish health service.

This criticism reflects a broader concern about the effectiveness of the SNP's management of public services, as Sarwar accused the government of failing to address pressing issues such as crime and education. His comments resonate with many Scots who feel let down by the current administration's performance.

Reform and the Politics of Division

Sarwar also took aim at the Reform party and its leader, Nigel Farage, characterising them as purveyors of "gutter politics". He recounted personal attacks directed at him during recent by-elections, which were seen as indicative of the party's aggressive tactics. Despite these challenges, Sarwar noted that Labour successfully won the election, demonstrating resilience in the face of adversity.

His remarks about Farage were particularly pointed. Sarwar described him as a "poisonous little man" lacking any understanding of Scotland. This personal attack illustrates the growing tensions between Labour and Reform, as Sarwar seeks to distance his party from what he perceives as divisive and negative campaigning.

The Road Ahead for Scottish Labour

As Sarwar closed his speech, he expressed optimism about Labour's prospects in the upcoming Scottish elections. He positioned the party as a force for ambition and change, confident in its ability to resonate with voters. "I am working day and night to change my country for the better," Sarwar stated, urging party members to embrace a narrative of hope and progress.

This forward-looking approach comes at a crucial time for Labour as they seek to regain ground lost to both the SNP and Reform. Sarwar's call for confidence in Labour's achievements may be pivotal in galvanising support and presenting a united front as the party gears up for the next electoral battle.

Conclusion: A Call to Action for Scottish Labour

In summary, Anas Sarwar's address at the Labour conference highlighted both the achievements of his party and the challenges posed by the SNP and Reform. His call for greater confidence in communicating Labour's successes is essential as the party navigates a complex political landscape. With the Scottish elections on the horizon, how Labour responds to these challenges will be crucial in shaping its future. Will they successfully reclaim their position as a leading force in Scottish politics? Only time will tell. #ScottishLabour #AnasSarwar #ScottishPolitics

FAQs

What did Anas Sarwar say about the SNP's funding?

Anas Sarwar accused the SNP of failing to effectively utilise an additional £5.2bn in funding provided to the Scottish government since Labour returned to power at Westminster.

What are the key achievements Sarwar highlighted?

Sarwar highlighted several achievements, including economic stability, workers' rights, and a £10bn shipbuilding deal for the Clyde, which is set to secure thousands of jobs.

How did Sarwar describe Nigel Farage?

He described Nigel Farage as a "poisonous little man" who lacks understanding of Scotland and engages in "gutter politics".

What issues did Sarwar raise about the NHS in Scotland?

Sarwar pointed out that NHS waiting lists in Glasgow are alarmingly high, with more people waiting over two years for treatment than in all of England combined.

What is Sarwar's outlook for the future of Labour in Scotland?

Sarwar expressed confidence that Labour could defy pollsters and return to power in the upcoming Scottish elections, promoting a message of ambition and change.