Anas Sarwar Labour Party
Leader of the Scottish Labour Party since 2021 and the first Muslim leader of a major UK political party. A Glasgow-born dentist by training, Sarwar served as MP for Glasgow Central (2010-2015) before becoming an MSP for the Glasgow region in 2016. He led Scottish Labour to its strongest Westminster result in a decade at the 2024 general election.
Policy Positions
Scotland's Future
Oppose independence. Focus on strengthening devolution within the UK. Want Scotland to lead reform of the union, not leave it.
NHS & Health
Declare a waiting times emergency. Pledge 160,000 extra NHS appointments. Increase capacity for mental health and cancer services.
Housing
Build new social and affordable housing. Support first-time buyers with targeted schemes. Reform planning to unlock more homes.
Climate & Transport
Support UK net zero targets and back GB Energy, Labour's publicly owned clean energy company. Promote Scottish renewables jobs.
Tax & Public Spending
Maintain current Scottish income tax rates. No planned increases or cuts. Focus on economic growth to fund services.
Economy & Jobs
Back GB Energy as a driver of Scottish investment. Reform planning laws to attract business. Support industrial transition in heavy industry areas.
Education & Childcare
Close the attainment gap between richest and poorest pupils. Ban mobile phones in classrooms. Invest in teaching workforce.
Social Issues
Progressive on equalities generally. More cautious position on gender recognition reform — supportive of trans rights while emphasising women's spaces.
Track Record
› Leader of the Scottish Labour Party since 2021
› First Muslim and person of colour to lead a major UK political party
› Former MP for Glasgow Central (2010-2015)
› Deputy Leader of Scottish Labour (2011-2014)
› Qualified dentist; son of Mohammad Sarwar, the UK's first Muslim MP