Scotland’s Deputy First Minister calls for early Westminster election

Scotland’s Deputy First Minister has called for an early Westminster election with the party set to hold the “balance of power”.

The party commissioned a poll ahead of its annual conference in Aberdeen showing 52% support for Scottish independence, as well as 34% backing for the party at a Westminster election – 14 points ahead of Labour.

A separate study by More in Common found 48% support for independence.

Speaking to the Press Association in the conference hall on Thursday, Jenny Gilruth said: “We would welcome an early election.

“The polling, of course, suggests that the SNP would hold the balance of power in a hung parliament and really strong support for the SNP across the country allowing us to regain a number of seats.”

She added: “We welcome the polling around about support for independence and, of course, we would welcome an early general election to solidify that support.”

Party delegates will gather in Aberdeen on Thursday to hear from senior leaders, with the First Minister due to speak on Saturday.

The key announcement ahead of the conference was the launch of the Choose Scotland campaign – a new £100,000 push for independence.

Ms Gilruth rejected assertions that the campaign was simply to energise the party’s base.

“I think we’ve got plenty to say to members,” she said.

“Members will be hearing from the First Minister, from myself and a range of other ministers and delegates around about these issues.

“We really do come off the back of a very strong election result for the SNP and I think it is important not to forget that – that was only in May.

“Support for independence, support for the SNP remains strong and, of course, we will use that strength to build the case for independence and the launch of the campaign at conference is really part of that message.”