Stephen Flynn says he is ‘ambitious’ after being asked if he wants John Swinney’s job

Under-fire Stephen Flynn has expressed his ambition in response to questions about aspiring for John Swinney’s position. The SNP Westminster leader is facing scrutiny following his proposal to run for a seat in Holyrood in 2026 while maintaining his role as an MP. Flynn’s plan to contest against sitting SNP MSP Audrey Nicoll in Aberdeen South and North Kincardine has drawn criticism from colleagues.

Flynn, who unseated former MP Ian Blackford to become the SNP Westminster leader, is believed by party insiders to have intentions to eventually succeed Swinney as the party’s leader and First Minister. In an interview with the BBC, Flynn acknowledged his ambition, stating he is focused on serving Aberdeen and Scotland. While he acknowledged the possibility of a future leadership contest, he emphasised that such an event would be far in the future as he believes Swinney will win the upcoming Scottish Parliament elections.

Regarding the backlash over his dual role proposal, Flynn maintained that he would not receive two salaries if elected to Holyrood but highlighted the importance of being involved in discussions impacting his constituents at both Westminster and Holyrood. He also addressed the criticism surrounding his challenge against Nicoll, refuting claims that he had requested her to step aside before announcing his candidacy.

Flynn emphasised his commitment to standing up for his beliefs and representing his constituents, expressing his reluctance to engage in defending himself against falsehoods in the public domain. The Record previously reported that SNP Ministers postponed a vote on banning dual roles shortly before Flynn revealed his intentions, leading to internal tensions within the party.

In summary, Stephen Flynn’s declaration of ambition amidst controversy surrounding his political aspirations has underscored divisions within the SNP and raised questions about the future leadership of the party.

Insights and Summary:
The article highlights the political ambitions and challenges facing Stephen Flynn within the SNP, shedding light on internal conflicts and differing views on dual mandates. Flynn’s refusal to rule out future leadership aspirations adds an intriguing dimension to the party’s dynamics, especially amid ongoing debates about the feasibility of holding multiple political roles simultaneously. As Flynn navigates these hurdles, his actions and statements will continue to shape the party’s trajectory and potentially influence its leadership landscape in the long run.