John Swinney accused Nigel Farage of “hatred and racism” during a campaign rally ahead of the opening of polls in the Hamilton by-election at the weekend.
Scotland's First Minister has slammed the leader of the Reform UK party, claiming he is a “real threat” ahead of the Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse by-election on Thursday.
Mr Farage's party faced criticism after one Facebook advert suggested Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar favoured Pakistanis over Scots and included part of a speech in which he called for more participation from South Asians in politics.
Addressing a crowd of campaigners on Saturday, including several MPs, former MPs and candidates for the 2026 Holyrood election, Mr Swinney compared the Reform UK movement to former minister Christine McKelvie, whose death triggered the by-election.
“This was a by-election that none of us wanted to take part in because it meant losing a loved one, Christina McKelvie, who was a person who embodied generosity, tolerance and inclusivity,” he said.
“That is exactly how she has carried out her work in this constituency and in Parliament, and that is the complete opposite of what Nigel Farage has brought to this election campaign, which has brought racism and hatred to the heart of this community, which is disgusting.
“We will resist this in every possible way.”
In response to questions from the press, the First Minister said he was not concerned about possible libel claims arising from his racism allegations against Mr Farage.
When the by-election was called, many expected it to be a close contest between the SNP's Katie Loudon and Labour's Davie Russell, but Mr Farage's party has improved its standing in recent weeks.
Speaking to the PA news agency after his speech, the First Minister stressed that it was “absolutely clear” that Labour was “out of the running” and the choice was now “between the SNP and Farage”.
“I want to make sure that Farage's policies do not gain traction in Scotland, they are destructive,” he said.
In his speech, the first minister mentioned several times
Sourse: breakingnews.ie
