Scottish independence has been a topic discussed for many years, with the first referendum held in 2014. While the people initially voted to stay within the UK, much has changed in the country since, such as the UK leaving the European Union. As a result, First Minister John Swinney and the SNP have been campaigning to make the second independence referendum happen.
After the SNP remained the largest party in Holyrood after the Scottish Parliament election in May 2026, there is now a large number of pro-independence MSPs, including from other parties.
A spokesperson for Swinney said: “The first minister is pleased that the prime minister reached out to congratulate him on his emphatic election win and that the prime minister stressed his willingness to work in collaboration with the Scottish government where possible.
“Given the SNP’s landslide victory and the fact that the people of Scotland have elected more pro-independence MSPs than at any point in the parliament’s history, the previous refusal of the UK government to consider Scotland’s right to decide its own future was clearly unsustainable. A way forward must be found, and so these discussions are welcome.”
“Coming alongside Labour MSPs, making clear that there must be a way for this question to be resolved, it is now very clear that the momentum is building behind Scotland’s right to decide. The first minister looks forward to the talks with the UK government, and is confident that the people of Scotland will choose the fresh start of independence.”
However, Downing Street has emphasised that Labour’s position is to oppose Scottish independence, yet they are open to discussing “shared issues”.
A Downing Street spokesperson said: “The PM committed to meeting to discuss shared issues, including the cost of living.
“As the PM told the first minister, the manifesto this government was elected on was unambiguous that ‘Labour does not support independence or another referendum’. Our position remains unchanged.”
First Minister John Swinney is determined to request IndyRef2
After his victory in the 2026 election, the First Minister has plans to hold a vote on a Section 30 order. What is more, First Minister John Swinney plans to introduce a draft referendum bill in the first 100 days after the election.
First Minister John Swinney said in a press conference: “I certainly intend to carry on with my plans, yes.”
“I’ll talk to the leaders of all political parties with the exception of Reform about how we might collaborate to improve the lives of people in Scotland. Having a referendum on independence and becoming an independent country would be a significant factor.”
Could a second independence referendum happen in Scotland?
While we know that a face-to-face meeting between the two leaders has been agreed, with Swinney coming in intending to discuss the Scotland independence referendum, nothing is set in stone yet, especially since Westminster opposes the idea.
