THE SNP will earn the right to be heard – by delivering on the public’s priorities.
Recent weeks have been challenging for our party and there is much to reflect on in the wake of the election result.
We must listen to the message sent by voters and earn the right to be heard and that is exactly what this conference is about.
READ MORE: Full interview with Kate Forbes on independence and key priorities
The election was about kicking the Tories out but it’s no good exchanging like for like. In this watershed week in UK politics, we’ve already got a taste of what’s to come under Labour – austerity, austerity and more austerity.
If they do not change tack, the consequences will be devastating for Scotland, with our concerns and priorities again being ignored by Westminster.
With Labour’s empty promises of “change” now a distant memory, the SNP stand alone as a party which has always and will always put the people of Scotland first.
In our time in government, we have implemented life-changing policies such as free tuition and free prescriptions, while supporting our most vulnerable families with game-changing policies such as the Scottish Child Payment. Now, we are building a high-wage economy through increasing the wages of invaluable public-sector workers, while creating good jobs and helping to boost manufacturing in Scotland.
A vibrant, growing economy is vital if Scotland is to have a prosperous future but that is being jeopardised by the mismanagement and recklessness of this Labour Government. Challenging financial circumstances are a direct result of Labour’s nonsensical commitment to Tory fiscal rules and the SNP remain determined to take a different approach.
The First Minister has made clear his determination to concentrate on the priorities of Scottish households and businesses – eradicating child poverty, supporting public services, promoting economic growth and tackling climate change.
Be in no doubt, our determination will not waver, nor will our commitment to a fairer, more sustainable economic model.
We are transforming lives every single day, building a socially democratic country and staying true to our values and those of Scotland – public services run for people not profit, a social security system based on dignity and respect, and a sustainable economy.
We will do everything we can – at Holyrood and Westminster – to oppose Labour cuts, and that means uniting for Scotland. Together, we will stand up for the people of Scotland by delivering, showing what is possible when a government puts the people’s priorities first.
Westminster is taking Scotland down the wrong path but the SNP offer a future of hope and ambition; one in which we can tackle the issues concerning communities across Scotland and build a fairer country.
That is, after all, why we believe in Scottish independence, and it is on us to persuade people that here lies the best future for our country.
Now, let’s get to work.
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Callum Baird, Editor of The National
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