SCOTLAND is “on the brink of independence” and the SNP is now “the most effective political party in the country”, according to one of the contenders for its depute leadership.
Angus Robertson, the SNP’s Westminster leader and MP for Moray, yesterday published his campaign priorities, which fall under three categories: leadership, grassroots and independence.
He has also committed to reaching a target of 5,000 pledged supporters by the time nominations close on August 5. “This election is about the leadership team of the SNP,” said Robertson. “I believe I am in the best possible place to provide that leadership and work side-by-side with Nicola Sturgeon to deliver our collective goals as a party.
“I also bring the ability to build on the strong relationship that already exists between our… parliamentary group and with our members. Having been a successful campaign director for the SNP, I have the experience to bring together our activists, candidates and supporters to deliver for the people of Scotland.
“We have built a party that is the most effective political party in the country. That strength is built upon the working relationship between our members, branches and campaign teams. We now need to ensure that our structures allow new members to feel empowered to join in our campaigns and deliver even more record-breaking results.”
Sturgeon is preparing the ground for another independence referendum, but has said she will only stage a re-runrerun if she cannot find another viable option to keep Scotland in the European Union (EU).
Robertson said he would use his position as SNP deputy leader to “deliver our goal of independence”.
“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. 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.”
He added: “From today, I’m also launching my bid to bring on board 5,000 pledged supporters to my campaign before the nominations close.
“My vision for this role is about unity, campaigning and delivering our goal of independence so, if you can get behind that, then join me.”
Robertson also launched his campaign hub website, which already boasts a number of high-profile supporters including leading SNP members, councillors, parliamentarians and Yes Scotland campaigners.
Humza Yousaf, an MSP who had previously been considered a strong contender for the post, wrote: “For me the best person for the job is Angus Robertson and I am delighted to give him my full backing for the position of Depute Leader of the SNP.”
MP Joanna Cherry QC said she was “delighted” to support Robertson, and East Lothian Council’s SNP group leader and Cosla group secretary, Stuart Currie, said: “In my opinion, Angus Robertson standing for the SNP depute leader is great news for our party in local government. He will play a crucial role in driving forward the 2017 campaign.”
Robertson’s highest-profile challengers are Alyn Smith, the MEP who received a standing ovation in Brussels for his plea to EU members to respect Scotland’s vote to remain, and MP Tommy Sheppard. Councillor Christopher McEleny is also standing.
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