Keir Starmer mocks Stephen Flynn over Holyrood double jobbing backlash

Keir Starmer has taken a dig at SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn for his recent decision to pursue a Holyrood seat alongside his current position, sparking criticism over double jobbing. During Prime Minister’s Questions, Starmer sarcastically remarked that Flynn’s Scottish colleagues would be “very glad to see him in his seat in this House,” following Flynn’s announcement to stand for the Scottish Parliament without resigning from his Commons seat.

Flynn faced backlash after initially planning to hold dual roles in Edinburgh and London, a move that was met with disapproval within his own party. However, he later backtracked on his decision, admitting that he had made a mistake. He is now reconsidering a challenge for the Aberdeen South & North Kincardine seat at Holyrood, which is currently occupied by his party colleague Audrey Nicoll.

During a session in the House of Commons, Flynn referenced the ongoing BBC anti-scam awareness week and raised questions about government promises regarding energy bills, business support, and pensioner protection. In response, Starmer highlighted the failure of the Scottish Government to deliver on its commitments, subtly criticising the SNP’s track record.

The exchange garnered applause from onlookers, with Starmer reinforcing his pointed remarks by alluding to the disappointment in Scotland over unfulfilled promises. Flynn’s U-turn on dual representation has reignited discussions around the practice of double jobbing in politics and the importance of prioritising constituents’ interests over personal ambitions.

While Flynn has now ruled out juggling both roles, his initial intentions have sparked debate within the SNP and beyond, highlighting the challenges and expectations faced by politicians balancing responsibilities across different levels of government.

In summary, Keir Starmer’s jibe at Stephen Flynn underscores the complexities and controversies surrounding the issue of double jobbing in politics. Flynn’s reversal on pursuing a dual mandate serves as a reminder of the delicate balance required of elected representatives and the scrutiny they face when navigating multiple roles to serve their constituents effectively.