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Scotland's Swinney Pushes for Second Independence Vote

1/18/2026

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John Swinney, Scotland's First Minister, reiterated plans for a second independence referendum if the SNP wins a majority in May.
He said a strong SNP showing could help end Keir Starmer's leadership.
Swinney noted the 2014 referendum outcome has been shaped by Brexit, which most Scots opposed.
Despite the UK Supreme Court ruling, Parliament must approve a second referendum, and Swinney remains confident Starmer's premiership will not last the year.

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Story summary

John Swinney, Scotland's First Minister, reiterated plans for a second independence referendum if the SNP wins a majority in May.
He said a strong SNP showing could help end Keir Starmer's leadership.
Swinney noted the 2014 referendum outcome has been shaped by Brexit, which most Scots opposed.
Despite the UK Supreme Court ruling, Parliament must approve a second referendum, and Swinney remains confident Starmer's premiership will not last the year.