SNP holding talks to strike deal on future structure of council
SNP leadership in Renfrewshire have held talks with an independent councillor over the prospect of a confidence and supply agreement in the next administration.
The mooted cooperation pact stops short of a formal coalition but would in theory see Andy Doig, an elected member for Johnstone North and the surrounding villages, support the party in budget votes and motions of confidence.
If the deal receives the required backing, it could see Councillor Doig become the convener of the Audit, Risk and Scrutiny Board – a role that is occupied by a member of the opposition.
The agreement would not affect individual motions that arise at full council meetings, which would be dealt with as normal on a case by case basis.
When asked about the negotiations, Councillor Iain Nicolson, who is in line to continue as council leader after being reelected head of the SNP group, confirmed he has had talks across political parties in Renfrewshire.
He said: “This week I have had conversations with the new leader of the Labour group, Lib Dem councillor and independent regarding our proposals for the council board structure on Thursday.
“These have been very positive and productive.
“I have always operated on an open door policy on common interests across the political divide.
“It will be up to the council on how it wants to proceed with regard to the forming of an administration.”
The developments follow the SNP’s success in the council election on Friday, May 6, which saw them return 21 members – two more than their figure in 2017.
Labour had 15 candidates elected, while the Conservatives had five, followed by one Liberal Democrat and one independent.
While heartened by their own improved performance in the recent election, it is understood Labour accept that the SNP have the right to form a minority administration, should they decide to go down that route.
Meanwhile, Councillor Nicolson is due to be nominated as leader at tomorrow’s meeting – at which point he is expected to win the required votes to continue in the role.
Councillor Jacqueline Cameron is expected to become the council’s depute leader after she was elected to the position in the SNP group.
I have always operated an open door policy on common interests across the political divide