Scottish Tory chairman argues that voting Conservative in key seats could put a permanent end to the SNP’s independence push

The Scottish Conservatives are framing Thursday’s general election as a crucial opportunity to end the ongoing debate over Scottish independence. Party chairman Craig Hoy has urged voters to back the Conservatives in key marginals, particularly in seats where they are directly challenging the SNP, claiming it could mark the “season finale” of the SNP’s quest for independence.

Hoy emphasised that supporting the Conservatives in these critical areas would effectively shut down any remaining hopes the SNP has of pursuing independence, allowing Scotland to refocus on domestic priorities such as healthcare and infrastructure.

“This General Election is a massive opportunity to finally defeat the SNP and end the divisive debate that has dominated Scottish politics for over a decade,” said Hoy. “If voters back the Scottish Conservatives in the key seats, we could see the SNP’s dream of independence finish once and for all.”

He also cautioned that votes for other parties, particularly Reform UK, could inadvertently benefit the SNP, making it easier for them to retain their hold in marginal constituencies. “Even a few votes for another party could help the SNP win,” he added.

In response, the SNP dismissed the Conservative claims, with their candidate for West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine, Glen Reynolds, arguing that the real focus of the election should be on removing the Tories from power. He highlighted the SNP’s role as the primary opposition to the Conservatives in Scotland, noting that only an SNP vote would guarantee the removal of Tory MPs from Scottish constituencies.

Reynolds also pointed to the broader national picture, asserting that the election outcome in England was all but decided, with Sir Keir Starmer likely to become the next Prime Minister. He framed Scotland’s election battle as a direct contest between the SNP and Labour, with the SNP providing the necessary checks and balances on a Labour government.

“The only voices that will hold Labour to account and ensure Scotland’s interests are represented in Westminster are SNP voices,” Reynolds said, underscoring his belief that the party remains essential in the fight for Scotland’s future.