John Swinney faces pressure over SNP conference and independence claims

First Minister John Swinney is facing pressure to exclude the Scottish Greens from the upcoming SNP conference in Aberdeen. The calls for exclusion follow controversial statements by Green Party leaders, including Ross Greer, who endorsed a motion describing Zionism as racism. Additionally, Green MSP Ariane Burgess has faced criticism for social media activity perceived as anti-Semitic.

Scottish Conservative leader Russell Findlay has urged Swinney to withdraw the invitation to Green co-leader Gillian Mackay, arguing that allowing the Greens to speak would legitimate their views. Findlay accused the First Minister of pro-Palestinian posturing at the expense of the Jewish community.

Separately, Swinney stated that the movement for Scottish independence has ‘turned a corner.’ He cited recent comments from Prime Minister Andy Burnham regarding a potential future vote and agreements between pro-independence leaders in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland as evidence of shifting political momentum. Although Burnham quickly clarified that independence remains ‘off limits,’ Swinney maintained that the SNP is now leading the political debate.