Nicola Sturgeon tells Scots only the SNP can stand up to Tories at Westminster

Nicola Sturgeon: Picture credit - FM's office

Nicola Sturgeon will today claim that only the SNP can "be a strong voice for Scotland, standing against Tory cuts" as she launches her party's manifesto.

With opinion polls suggesting the Conservatives are enjoying a surge in support north of the Border, the SNP leader will say: "Now, more than ever, we need strong SNP voices at Westminster standing up for Scotland against an emboldened Tory government".

RELATED CONTENT 

• Scottish Green Party launches general election manifesto​
• SNP to pursue "progressive alliance" if Tories and Labour fail to win majority

In a clear reference to the prospect of a second independence referendum, the First Minister will say an SNP victory on 8 June would strengthen Scotland's hand "on choosing our future as a nation".

Sturgeon will say that a strong SNP contingent at Westminster will help fight austerity and give Scotland a bigger say in the looming Brexit talks.

Speaking in Perth, she will say: "While the polls have narrowed, the Tories are still on course to win the election. Labour proved beyond any doubt that they were unable to provide the opposition needed to keep the Tories in check in the last parliament.

"Only the SNP can provide the strong opposition that Scotland needs to protect our schools, hospitals and vital public services from deeper Tory cuts and further damaging austerity.

"And if the SNP win this election in Scotland, it will strengthen the country’s hand when it comes to opposing cuts, defending our place in Europe and on choosing our future as a nation."

The SNP manifesto is expected to promise an extra £18bn of investment in Scottish public services.

Other key proposals include attempting to keep Scotland in the single market as part of the Brexit negotiations, protecting the triple lock on pensions and the winter fuel allowance.

Sturgeon will add: "While the Tories are set to plunge Britain into Brexit without a clear plan, a vote for the SNP will give us a strong hand in the Brexit negotiations to ensure Scotland’s interests – on jobs and our economy — will be heard at the top table.

“Regardless of whether you voted leave or remain, a vote for the SNP at this election is a vote to ensure Scotland’s interests are protected throughout that process."