Andrew Liddle

Scottish Labour’s ceasefire dilemma

(Photo by Peter Summers/Getty Images)

Matters of war and peace are not devolved, but they have nevertheless become the most powerful weapon in the SNP’s armoury as it seeks to fight back against a resurgent Scottish Labour party. Of course, given the nationalists’ record of misjudgement and appeasement in foreign policy, it is perhaps little surprise to see its motion to the Scottish parliament on Tuesday supporting an immediate, condition-free ceasefire.

By supporting an immediate ceasefire, the SNP has put Scottish Labour – bullish after its victory in the Rutherglen and Hamilton West by-election – and particularly its leader, in a difficult spot. There is no doubt the motion is also good domestic politics for the nationalists, even if the SNP’s present folly follows a long line of former follies.

When faced with a choice between blind loyalty to the UK leadership, or party unity in Scotland, Sarwar has plumped for the latter. 

After all, we shouldn’t forget that the nationalist party is the same one that branded the humanitarian intervention in Kosovo an ‘unpardonable

Comments

Join the debate for just $5 for 3 months

Be part of the conversation with other Spectator readers by getting your first three months for $5.

Already a subscriber? Log in