SNP deputy leader must clarify his position on IndyRef2

8 Mar 2019

The Scottish Conservatives today have written to SNP deputy leader Keith Brown urging him to clarify his position on a second independence referendum.

It comes after Nicola Sturgeon yesterday appeared to rule out a so-called “wildcat” referendum – something Mr Brown had proposed in a private meeting with SNP activists only last month.

Scottish Conservative interim leader Jackson Carlaw has today written to Mr Brown to ask whether he stands by his comments to SNP activists or not – and, if so, whether he believes he can carry on as a credible deputy to Nicola Sturgeon.

Mr Carlaw said:

“On its main and only priority, the SNP is in total disarray, with leader and deputy leader at odds on what plan to take forward.

“Mr Brown needs to clear things up: does he stand by his comments from last month, backing a so-called ‘wildcat’ referendum? Or does he now back his leader’s apparent position that such a plan must be ruled out?

“If he stands by his position, Mr Brown needs to answer another – how is it credible for him to serve as Nicola Sturgeon’s deputy?

“Mr Brown can’t hide away from this – non-clarifying clarifications won’t cut it. He speaks loudly and plainly when it suits him – let’s hear him speak now.”