Full Breakdown
Scottish Parliament to Vote on Motion Requesting Section 30 Order for Second Independence Referendum
5/24/2026, 9:11:48 PM
Motion to Request Section 30 Order
On Tuesday the Scottish Parliament will vote on a motion asking the UK Government to issue a Section 30 order under the Scotland Act 1998, which would temporarily give Scotland the power to hold an independence referendum.
Election Outcome and Official Statements
The SNP won a significant May 2024 election, delivering the highest number of pro-independence MSPs ever elected. Deputy First Minister Jenny Gilruth said the SNP government is “hitting the ground running” and contrasted it with a “dismal, chaotic Westminster government.” She added that senior Labour figures have accepted the referendum demand. First Minister John Swinney will present the motion and is expected to reaffirm the SNP’s pledge for a “fresh start” for Scotland.
Section 30 Order and Legal Requirement
Under the Scotland Act 1998, a Section 30 order is the sole legal route to devolve referendum powers to Scotland; it must be granted by Westminster, without which a Scottish-run referendum cannot proceed.
Westminster Position and Opposition
The motion’s success hinges on Westminster’s willingness to issue a Section 30 order. Pro-independence leaders argue a refusal would be “democratically unsustainable,” but the UK Government has not yet responded, leaving a legal and political impasse.
Implications for the Union
A granted Section 30 order would enable a legally sanctioned referendum, potentially reshaping Scotland’s constitutional relationship with the UK and influencing devolution debates, party politics, and union stability.
Verbatim Quotes
“She said: “This SNP Government is hitting the ground running to deliver what we promised to the people of Scotland.” — Jenny Gilruth, Deputy First Minister
“With the highest number of pro-independence MSPs ever elected, the mandate for a referendum could not be clearer – and it is democratically unsustainable for Westminster to refuse to listen to the verdict of the people of Scotland.” — Jenny Gilruth, Deputy First Minister
“This is a Scottish Government working for Scotland – and when people see how quickly John Swinney is acting to deliver what he promised during the election, the contrast with a dismal, chaotic Westminster government in a state of permanent crisis could not be clearer.” — Jenny Gilruth, Deputy First Minister
“The first step to securing that fresh start will take place on Tuesday – and I am urging Parliament to unite behind Scotland’s right to decide a better future.” — Jenny Gilruth, Deputy First Minister
Upcoming Steps
The motion will be debated and voted on Tuesday. If passed, the SNP will formally request a Section 30 order from Westminster; the UK Government’s response will determine whether a second independence referendum can be scheduled.
