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Swinney's 'Secret Plan' for Independence Referendum Faces Backlash

10/16/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Scottish First Minister John Swinney (SNP) faced criticism for a vague approach to a second independence referendum after hinting at a 'secret plan' at the SNP conference.
Critics, including Scottish Conservative deputy leader Rachael Hamilton, demanded transparency about the plan's costs and tactics.
Legal experts dispute Swinney's claim that an SNP majority could trigger a referendum, noting that conventions do not create legal obligations.

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Story summary

Scottish First Minister John Swinney (SNP) faced criticism for a vague approach to a second independence referendum after hinting at a 'secret plan' at the SNP conference.
Critics, including Scottish Conservative deputy leader Rachael Hamilton, demanded transparency about the plan's costs and tactics.
Legal experts dispute Swinney's claim that an SNP majority could trigger a referendum, noting that conventions do not create legal obligations.