The resignation of Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has left the Scottish independence movement in a state of flux. On Wednesday, the Scottish National Party leader announced her resignation after more than eight years in the role. The party is now meeting to discuss the rules for a leadership contest to replace her.
To discuss the implications of Sturgeon’s resignation, we are joined by Miles Briggs, Member of the Scottish Parliament for the Scottish Conservative Party, Ian Blackford, Scottish National Party member in the UK Parliament and Mark Diffley, pollster and director of The Diffley Partnership.
Miles Briggs, what do you make of Nicola Sturgeon’s resignation?
Miles Briggs: I think it’s a sad day for Scotland. Nicola Sturgeon has been a strong and effective leader for the SNP and has been a passionate advocate for Scottish independence. Her resignation has left a void in the party and it will be interesting to see who takes her place.
Ian Blackford, what do you think are the implications of Sturgeon’s resignation for the Scottish independence movement?
Ian Blackford: I think Nicola Sturgeon’s resignation is a huge loss for the independence movement. She has been a driving force behind the push for Scottish independence and her departure will be felt across the country. However, I am confident that the SNP will find a suitable successor who will continue to fight for Scotland’s right to self-determination.
Mark Diffley, what do you think the polls are saying about Nicola Sturgeon’s resignation?
Mark Diffley: The polls have been quite consistent in their support for Scottish independence since Nicola Sturgeon took office. Her resignation has not had an immediate impact on public opinion but it will be interesting to see how the polls change once a new leader is chosen.
In conclusion, Nicola Sturgeon’s resignation has left the Scottish independence movement in a state of uncertainty. It remains to be seen who will take her place as leader of the SNP and how this will affect public opinion on Scottish independence. However, one thing is certain: Nicola Sturgeon will be remembered as a passionate advocate for Scottish independence and her legacy will live on.