MacNeil to stand as independent ‘unless change of direction in SNP leadership’
The MP was expelled from the SNP last month after he reportedly clashed with chief whip Brendan O’Hara.
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Ex-SNP MP Angus MacNeil has said he will stand as an independent candidate in his Na h-Eileanan Siar constituency unless there is a “substantial change of direction” in the party’s leadership.
Speaking at a meeting of Yes Fraserburgh, Brochers for Independence and Alba Party supporters, Mr MacNeil had to deliver his speech via a Zoom call due to what he said was “no plane connection whatsoever” to the mainland.
He said: “Unless there is a substantial change of direction in the leadership of the SNP, I am reconciled to fighting the election as an independent candidate.
“I can do no other and retain my freedom and ability to defend my constituents on issues such as ferries and fishing without fear or favour and no amount of aggressive whipping can persuade me otherwise.”
Mr MacNeil was expelled from his former party last month after he reportedly clashed with chief whip Brendan O’Hara.
He was initially suspended from the Westminster group, but said he would not rejoin after it had lifted.
The MP, who has represented Na h-Eileanan Siar since 2005, told the meeting that loyalty to his area came first.
Mr MacNeil said: “For me as an MP loyalty to constituency comes first, country next and then and only then to party. I say this as a former SNP member of 30 years standing.”
He hit out at the Scottish Government’s record on ferries and the proposed plans for highly protected marine areas (HPMAs)
Mr MacNeil said: “As an island MP, first and foremost, my job is to campaign for better services and to criticise and demand change in the Calmac/Scottish Government ferry policies where appropriate.
“Unfortunately, the Holyrood Government is hypersensitive to criticism, whether it be about ferries or the crazy fishing ban proposals or policies for independence.”
He also criticised the SNP’s approach to independence at the meeting, saying: “Going cap in hand to the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom last year was a clueless political manoeuvre.”
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.