SNP meet to set out path to independence
The Renfrewshire branch of the SNP is united and resilient in its pursuit for independence, local MPs have said.
Mhairi Black and Gavin Newlands made the claim following a party event in Renfrew Town Hall.
A capacity crowd heard from both the politicians, as well as SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn who travelled to Renfrewshire for the grassroots gathering.
All three set out what they see as the road to independence and were questioned by members on issues such as Brexit, tackling child poverty and the impact of UK Government policies on EU citizens.
Mr Newlands, MP for Paisley and Renfrewshire North, said:“Despite what sections of the media and opposition might want to believe, we are a party united behind our programme of social democracy and independence for Scotland, and every single member who attended is committed to making that happen.
“Whoever takes over as leader of our party will head an organisation and a movement that is enthused and ready to take the positive message of Scottish independence to every door in Renfrewshire and beyond.
“With a UK economy in permanent disaster mode, the cost of living crisis hammering households, and a UK Government hell-bent on adopting the policies of the far right, it’s more vital than ever that Scotland has the opportunity to choose a better future sooner rather than later.”
The event was held on the same night the SNP’s three leadership candidates took part in a leadership contest.
But Ms Black, who represents Paisley and Renfrewshire South, said she enjoyed taking part in a wider conversation about the way forward for the independence movement with the Renfrewshire membership.
“It was a pleasure to get together with SNP members from across Renfrewshire,”she said.
“It was heartening to see so many local members come out to the event, with over 200 local SNP members coming along to add to that conversation and make sure their voices shape where our movement is going.”
Voting for the new leader of the SNP closes on Monday, March 27.