SNP leadership challenge would not be a good idea, says Swinney

First Minister John Swinney has said he does not think a challenge to his leadership would be a “good idea”.

Reports emerged this week suggesting a plot by some in the party to force Mr Swinney to come up with a new strategy for Scottish independence.

Asked by journalists after First Minister’s Questions on Thursday if he would likely face a challenge, Mr Swinney said: “I have no idea.”

On if he was worried about such a move, he replied: “I don’t think that would be a good idea.

“I came into office to help the SNP recover from a very, very difficult situation in the spring of 2024 and I’m very focused on making sure that we make that recovery to be ready for the 2026 elections, and that’s what’s the focus of my thinking and my planning.

“I’ve obviously taken forward a number of steps over the course of the last 12 months to get the SNP into a better position.”

He said that the party put itself “in contention” in the Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse by-election thanks to his leadership, when it would not have been before.

“We’ve got a journey of recovery and improvement to undertake, and we’re doing that and that’s the focus of my leadership.”

The First Minister went on to say the SNP was “not getting a hearing” from the public when he took over, but is now, because it is talking about the issues facing everyday people.

In a “second phase” of his leadership, the First Minister said he will “open up a conversation about independence”.

Since the reports emerged, Mr Swinney has been defended by two of his most senior ministers.

Speaking on BBC Radio Scotland on Thursday, Finance Secretary Shona Robison said the First Minister was “absolutely” safe in his job.

Newly-appointed Housing Secretary Mairi McAllan told the National she 100% supports Mr Swinney to lead the party into the next election.