Sturgeon: This marks start of a new push for independence
THE SNP conference over the next two days marks the start of a new push towards independence, according to Nicola Sturgeon.
The First Minister said the recently published Growth Commission report will form the basis of top level discussions over the summer.
The conference, which is being held in Aberdeen, comes amid marches across the country and calls for a second referendum to be called.
The party will announce the selection of a new deputy leader today and will debate topics including wages and how to address sexual harassment.
It will hear speeches from Nicola Sturgeon, Deputy First Minister John Swinney and Brexit Minister Michael Russell.
In her opening notes in the conference agenda, Ms Sturgeon said: “Our conference this weekend also marks the start of a new chapter in Scotland’s road to independence.
“With our opponents stuck quibbling grievances of the past, we’ve moved on to a debate about how we fulfil the potential of our country.
“The growth commission report is packed full of new ideas for Scotland’s future. It shows that small, independent nations can be successful, and often more successful than larger nations.”
A debate on introducing a wage ratio including capping a maximum limit on earnings as well as the minimum wage will take place.
Glasgow Provan branch has proposed the resolution, which calls for the Scottish Parliament to have control over minimum and maximum wages and for the Scottish Government to implement a wage ratio policy. It said: “This would clear the way for debate on introducing wage ratio legislation also within the private sector.”
The SNP trade union group is calling for paid paternity leave to be doubled to four weeks.
Former Catalan education minister Clara Ponsati, who is facing extradition to Spain where she could be jailed for backing the referendum on Catalan independence, will speak at a fringe event.
Susan Aitken, leader of Glasgow City Council, will speak at an event for SNP members only, held by the Association of Nationalist Councillors, entitled Organising for Victory.
Teaching union NASUWT is hosting an event with Hamilton and Larkhall MSP Christina McKelvie on “issues relating to sexual harassment and what needs to be done to address the problem of the sexualisation of women and girls in our society”.