SNP Seek to Clarify Labour's Position on Further Powers

Pete Wishart MP, the SNP's Constitution Spokesperson has today (Thursday) written to Scottish Secretary, Des Browne, asking him to clarify the Scottish Labour Party's position on more powers for the Scottish Parliament. Mr Wishart will also seek an early debate on the powers of the Scottish Parliament when Westminster returns from recess.

Mr Wishart said:

"There is now an overwhelming consensus that more powers are required for the Scottish Parliament with every party in Scotland prepared to take part in the renewed debate. At the same time we have the Scottish Secretary, encouraged by his Westminster back bench, telling us that devolution is an event and that no new powers are required.

"I believe that the people of Scotland deserve to know the position of Labour in Scotland. It certainly can't be both for and against more powers for Holyrood  - and it is ridiculous in the extreme to hold these contradictory positions at the same time. The Scottish people deserve to know who speaks for Scottish Labour on this issue - Wendy or Des?

"It certainly seems to be the case that Scottish Labour MP's at Westminster are setting themselves up to be the roadblock to further constitutional change. They have to spell out very clearly to the Scottish people exactly where they are on this key issue. Is a vote for Labour at Westminster a vote for shackling the Scottish Parliament and closing down this debate in Scotland?

"I will be writing to the Scottish Secretary to try to clarify this situation and will call for an early debate when Westminster returns."

ENDS