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Ian Blackford stepping down as SNP leader at Westminster

01 Dec 2022 2 minute read
SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford. Photo House of Commons

Ian Blackford is stepping down from his role as SNP leader at Westminster, he has announced

In a statement released on Thursday, Mr Blackford said he told MP colleagues he would not continue in the role he has held for five years.

In the run up to the next general election, that the SNP plans to run as a de facto referendum, Mr Blackford said “right now is the time for fresh leadership”.

“During my time as leader, the SNP won a landslide victory in the 2019 general election, with an increased share of the vote and MPs, and support for independence has continued to grow with polling this week showing a majority in favour,” he said.

“While I am stepping down as Westminster leader, I will continue in my role as the MP for Ross, Skye and Lochaber, and I have also accepted a new role at the centre of the SNP’s independence campaign, leading on business engagement.

“I would like to thank our MPs and staff for all their support over the past five years.

“Whoever replaces me as Westminster leader will have my full support as, together, we stand up for Scotland’s interests and democratic right to choose our future in an independence referendum.”


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Elin Owen
2 years ago

I’ll certainly miss his challenges of the various Prime Ministers on PMQ. It seemed to me that he and the SNP were the only valid opposition whilst Labour were twiddling their thumbs. All the best Mr Blackford and thank you for your amazing contribution!

Mab Meirion
Mab Meirion
2 years ago

Who will replace Ian Blackford in the battle against Rishi’s gang and remind Starmer of his job description? Our very own Liz Saville-Roberts of course…

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