SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn has faced a setback as a Scottish Government Minister expressed disapproval of his plans for double jobbing. Ivan McKee, the public finance minister, stated that holding positions as both an MP and MSP would not be sustainable, casting doubt on Flynn’s ‘dual mandate’ proposal. Flynn’s announcement to run as an SNP candidate for Holyrood while retaining his Westminster seat in Aberdeen South has caused uproar among SNP colleagues, with concerns that he is challenging the party’s stance against double jobbing.
In an interview with BBC Radio Scotland, McKee acknowledged Flynn’s abilities but cautioned against spreading oneself too thin. He highlighted his own commitment to serving as an MSP and minister full-time, emphasising the need for undivided attention to the responsibilities of the roles. McKee hinted that Flynn might need to reconsider his positions if elected to Holyrood, implying that juggling multiple roles could compromise the quality of representation.
Flynn’s aspirations for dual roles could face a significant hurdle in Holyrood, as Labour and the Greens support an amendment proposed by Tory MSP Graham Simpson to bar MPs from simultaneously serving in the Scottish Parliament for an extended period. The vote on this amendment is expected to take place before Christmas, potentially posing a challenge to Flynn’s ambitions. Moreover, there are speculations that the SNP might reinstate a ban on dual mandates, similar to the one enforced before the previous Holyrood election.
Flynn’s ambition for dual roles comes amid expectations that he and Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes could be contenders for future leadership positions within the SNP. However, McKee’s comments and the potential legislative barriers suggest that Flynn may need to reassess his plans if he aims to maintain both his Westminster and Holyrood positions simultaneously. The developments surrounding Flynn’s double jobbing plans underscore the complexities and challenges of holding multiple political offices concurrently.