Scotland ‘on the brink of independence’ claims Angus Robertson

Angus Robsertson MP - credit Paul Heartfield/Holyrood

The SNP’s leader in Westminster, Angus Robertson, has said Scotland “is on the brink of independence” as he outlines his bid to become Nicola Sturgeon’s deputy

The First Minister is preparing for a second referendum on Scottish independence should she be unable to find another possible option to keep Scotland in the European Union.

Stating the party needs to focus on persuading the public that leaving the union is right for Scotland, Robertson said his campaign will focus on leadership, grassroots and independence.

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“We are on the brink of independence; the campaign that comes now should be all about persuading people why our vision is the right one for Scotland,” he said.

“The SNP Depute Leader has a big role in order to make this happen - developing our policy, strategy and tactics to win.”

Challenging him in the contest is fellow MP Tommy Shepard, Inverclyde councillor Christopher McEleny and MEP Alyn Smith.

Robertson added: “I've spent the last year holding the UK Government to account every single week at PMQs. Alongside a team of extremely hard working MPs, we've turned the SNP from the third party of the UK to the most effective opposition party.

“It is this kind of work ethic that will see us succeed in our mission and I know that I can work with Nicola to make it happen.”

According to new party figures, SNP membership has now risen above 120,000 in the aftermath of the UK’s vote for Brexit; a rise of 4,000.

Commenting, SNP Business Convener Derek Mackay MSP said:

“The incredible upsurge in SNP membership shows no signs of stopping – with membership now over 120,000, putting the party in a strong position as we deliver our ambitious manifesto in government and lead the opposition to the Tories at Westminster.”

He added: “That membership has grown substantially since the EU referendum vote is testament to the strength of feeling in Scotland that we must not be dragged out Europe against our will – and the SNP in government will continue to explore every option to maintain our EU status.”