Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) are set to vote on a motion calling for the UK government to transfer powers needed to hold a second independence referendum. First Minister John Swinney introduced the measure, arguing that the pro-independence majority in Holyrood—comprising the SNP and Scottish Greens—gives a democratic mandate for a new vote.
The motion requests a Section 30 order under the Scotland Act 1998, which would devolve authority to the Scottish Parliament to legislate for a referendum. The vote is expected to pass, given that more than 70 MSPs back independence. However, the UK government, led by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, has repeatedly stated it will not support another referendum.
Swinney has previously said a referendum could be held within two years, but the SNP failed to win a majority in the recent Scottish election. Deputy First Minister Jenny Gilruth defended the move, stating that the combined total of pro-independence MSPs is the highest ever elected.
The debate, titled "Ambitious for Scotland," marks Swinney's first opportunity to outline his five-year vision. Political analysts note that the UK government remains preoccupied with other issues and is unlikely to grant the request.