SNP to Establish Walk-In GP Network, Swinney Announces
GLASGOW – Scottish National Party leader John Swinney announced plans Saturday to introduce a network of walk-in General Practitioner (GP) services across Scotland, addressing concerns over access to primary care.The proposal was unveiled at the SNP’s annual conference, alongside a renewed commitment to securing a second independence referendum.
The initiative aims to alleviate pressure on existing GP practices and reduce waiting times for non-emergency medical attention. Swinney indicated the plan would be a key component of the SNP’s platform heading into next year’s Holyrood election, framing it as a practical solution to improve healthcare delivery. This comes as the SNP seeks to broaden its appeal beyond core independence supporters, acknowledging declining opinion poll numbers compared to previous electoral successes in 2011 and 2021.
Swinney’s declaration followed a vote by SNP members to back his plan to declare a mandate for a second independence referendum should the party achieve a majority of seats in the upcoming election. The party acknowledges a fragmented unionist opposition – with the emergence of Reform UK drawing support from the Conservatives and Labour – possibly creating a pathway to victory even with a reduced overall vote share.
“Independence is back – not that it is ever far from mind for the party that exists to bring it about,” stated Glenn Campbell,BBC Scotland Political Editor.
The SNP’s political opponents, including the Conservatives, Labour, and the liberal Democrats, have criticized the focus on independence, arguing it distracts from essential services like health, education, and law and order. However, the SNP hopes the pursuit of independence will galvanize its base and attract lapsed supporters.
