Stephen Flynn suffers double jobbing blow after SNP Minister dismisses plan

SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn has faced a setback following opposition from a Scottish Government Minister regarding his plans for double jobbing. Ivan McKee expressed concerns about the feasibility of holding down both an MP and MSP role simultaneously, calling it unsustainable. Flynn’s announcement of seeking selection as an SNP candidate for Holyrood in 2026 while retaining his Westminster seat in Aberdeen South has stirred controversy within the SNP ranks. Colleagues are displeased with Flynn’s intentions to potentially displace sitting MSP Audrey Nicoll and believe he has contradicted the party’s stance against dual mandates.

Public finance minister McKee commended Flynn’s abilities but cautioned against double jobbing, emphasising the need for full-time commitment to parliamentary roles. McKee highlighted his own decision to relinquish paid work upon becoming an MSP to concentrate on the demands of the job. Discussing whether Flynn should resign his Westminster seat if elected to Holyrood, McKee acknowledged Flynn’s capabilities but reiterated his reservations about juggling both responsibilities effectively.

Flynn, regarded as a potential future leadership candidate alongside Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes, may encounter obstacles to his double jobbing plans if a proposed amendment to elections legislation, supported by Labour and the Greens, is passed. The amendment aims to restrict MPs from serving in the Scottish Parliament for extended periods. The SNP faces pressure to endorse the amendment following its historical aversion to double jobbing. The forthcoming vote on the matter is anticipated before Christmas.

Reportedly, the SNP could reintroduce a ban on dual mandates similar to the one enforced before the previous Holyrood election. This measure, requiring MPs to resign before contesting a Holyrood seat, had been viewed as a move to prevent certain individuals, such as former Edinburgh South West MP Joanna Cherry, from seeking election to the Scottish Parliament. The party’s national executive committee will determine if the ban will be upheld for the 2026 election.

In summary, Stephen Flynn’s aspirations for double jobbing have encountered resistance from a Scottish Government Minister, potentially impacting his political ambitions within the SNP and prompting a re-evaluation of party policies on dual mandates.

Insights and Summary:
The article highlights the internal party dynamics and challenges faced by SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn in pursuing a ‘dual mandate’ as an MP and potentially an MSP. The stance of Minister Ivan McKee against double jobbing underscores the complexities and expectations surrounding parliamentary roles. The political implications and potential amendments to election legislation reflect the ongoing debate within the SNP regarding dual mandates and leadership succession.