Stephen Mark Flynn Scottish National Party (SNP)
SNP Westminster leader since December 2022 and MP for Aberdeen South since 2019. Standing for Holyrood in 2026. Previously SNP group leader on Aberdeen City Council.
Policy Positions
Scotland's Future
Core commitment. Independence referendum if SNP wins a majority. Describes independence as essential to Scotland's future prosperity.
NHS & Health
Continue current NHS investment. Deliver the long-delayed National Care Service. Maintain mental health funding expansion.
Housing
Continue the rent control framework introduced in 2022. Invest in social housing. Maintain existing tenant protections.
Climate & Transport
Net zero by 2045. Just transition fund for oil and gas workers. Active travel investment. (2030 interim targets were dropped in 2024.)
Tax & Public Spending
Maintain progressive Scottish income tax, which currently raises around £1bn more than the rest-of-UK equivalent.
Economy & Jobs
Support a just transition from fossil fuels. Protect free university tuition. Invest in creative industries and Scottish exports.
Education & Childcare
Protect free university tuition. Maintain national curriculum standards. Focus on closing the attainment gap.
Social Issues
Supported the Gender Recognition Reform Bill (subsequently blocked by the UK Government). Progressive social policy across all groups.
Track Record
› SNP Westminster leader since December 2022, succeeding Ian Blackford
› MP for Aberdeen South since 2019; transitioning from Westminster to Holyrood
› Former SNP group leader on Aberdeen City Council (elected 2015)