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Oct 10 148 tweets 51 min read
📺 Watch @NicolaSturgeon's keynote address to the #SNP22 Conference.

👇 Follow the updates live on this thread and watch on Twitter, Facebook or at snp.org/live. Image
NS: "It is so good to be speaking at Conference in person again, rather than virtually. Getting to hug friends and colleagues is so much better.

Our political family – Scotland’s biggest party by far – is together again. And that feels great." #SNP22
NS: "The only downside of not being on zoom is having to trade my slippers for these heels. But I suppose I can’t have everything." #SNP22
NS: "Of course, it is always good to be here in Aberdeen. Especially now that the SNP is once again leading this great city.

Aberdeen and the North East is at the heart of our just transition to a net zero future." #SNP22
NS: "Since our late Queen - whose extraordinary life of service we have honoured in recent weeks - switched on the Forties pipeline in 1975, oil and gas has powered the Scottish economy.

Her late Majesty, back then, inaugurated the oil and gas age." #SNP22
NS: "As we move now - in so many ways - into a new era, we have duty to repay all those who work in that industry.

A duty to support them into new jobs in green energy. An opportunity to usher in the new age of Scottish renewables." #SNP22
NS: "Aberdeen is the oil and gas capital of Europe.

Let us resolve today to make it the net zero capital of the world." #SNP22
NS: "That ambition led us to establish the £500 million Just Transition Fund for this region.

Today I can announce the first 22 projects have just been awarded funding of more than £50 million." #SNP22
NS: "These projects will support the production of green hydrogen; the development of wave and tidal technology." #SNP22
NS: "And even pioneer the use of waste from whisky to recycle EV batteries;

They will focus on the skills our existing workforce need to take advantage of the renewables revolution." #SNP22
NS: "Scottish ingenuity here in the North-East, supported by the Scottish Govt, developing technologies to tackle the global climate emergency. It is exciting, inspiring stuff.

It is a shining example of what a Scottish Govt can do when the powers lie in our hands." #SNP22
NS: "When we last gathered together - just weeks from the start of a global pandemic - we could not have imagined what lay ahead.

Thankfully, Covid no longer dominates the news, or our thoughts, quite as much as it did." #SNP22
NS: "But the virus still poses a risk - especially as we approach winter.

So, before I go any further today, a plea: If you are eligible, get your booster jag." #SNP22
NS: "Vaccination is just as important now as it was last winter.

If you don’t do it for yourself - though you should - do it for those more vulnerable than you. And, please, do it for the NHS.

We owe the NHS - and all who work in it - a massive debt of gratitude." #SNP22
NS: "All of us hoped that when the worst of the pandemic was over, better times would lie ahead.

Thanks to the brilliance of vaccine scientists, and the sheer strength of the human spirit, I am certain those better days will come." #SNP22
NS: "But in the midst of a cost of living crisis, it won’t surprise you to hear me talk today about the challenges we face:

And about the massive responsibility of me, and my government, to help you through it." #SNP22
NS: "As we navigate these stormy waters, Scotland needs a steady and compassionate hand on the tiller.

Conference, that is what our Scottish Government provides." #SNP22
NS: "But today I will also make the case for optimism.

For not just accepting the world as it is.

But turning our minds and our hearts instead to building a stronger Scotland and playing our part in building a better, fairer world." #SNP22
NS: "The optimism that a better world is possible is inspired, for me, by the bravery of those who endure the toughest of times.

And at home by the knowledge that this beautiful, magnificent country of ours is bursting with talent, creativity and ingenuity." #SNP22
NS: "We also have a sense of solidarity and common purpose that our political debate can sometimes obscure.

Scotland has got what it takes to be a successful independent country.

It has it in abundance. Never let anyone tell us otherwise. " #SNP22
NS: "At this moment, across the world that better future can be hard to see - eclipsed, as it is, by significant and profound challenges.

A war of unprovoked aggression on our continent.

An energy price crisis and soaring inflation." #SNP22
NS: "Democratic norms eroded and human rights attacked in too many countries.

In the face of that, we have a duty to champion progressive values and universal rights.

Friends, that is a duty our party will always discharge." #SNP22
NS: "But in the UK we have a Westminster Government intent on taking us down a different path.

The current Home Secretary, speaking at the Conservative Party conference, said this about asylum seekers." #SNP22
NS: "And even as I quote her, I struggle to comprehend that she actually said these words. But here they are:

“I would love to be having a front page of The Telegraph with a plane taking off to Rwanda, that’s my dream, it’s my obsession.”" #SNP22
NS: "My dream is very different.

My dream is that we live in a world where those fleeing violence and oppression are shown compassion and treated like human beings.

Not shown the door and bundled on to planes like unwanted cargo." #SNP22
NS: "Our case for hope and optimism rests - above all – on our common humanity.

Compassion. Solidarity. Love.

These values sustained us in the darkest days of the pandemic.

They must drive us forward now." #SNP22
NS: "Those fighting across the globe for democracy, equality and human dignity must hear that they are not alone.

So let the message go out from us to everyone across the world standing up against tyranny and oppression.

We stand with you." #SNP22
NS: "To women in Iran fighting for basic human rights. We stand with you." #SNP22
NS: "To girls in Afghanistan demanding the right to go to school. We stand with you." #SNP22
NS: "To men and women risking their lives in opposition to Putin in Russia, or his sidekick in Belarus. We stand with you." #SNP22
NS: "And to the people of Ukraine – fighting for your very existence. We stand with you." #SNP22
NS: "Today we live on a continent where a so-called strong man - though one who has never looked weaker or more insecure - has launched a brutal invasion of his neighbour.

That should be unimaginable in 21st century Europe." #SNP22
NS: "But for the people of Ukraine it is all too real. Every day there are atrocities and killings.

Today, the capital, Kyiv, and cities across the country are under renewed bombardment. Despicable war crimes have been committed." #SNP22
NS: "Let us be clear - these are war crimes for which Vladimir Putin must be held to account." #SNP22
NS: "The contrast between Putin and the people of Ukraine could not be starker.

From President Zelensky to the sacrifice of ordinary citizens – personified here on Saturday by our guest Lesia Vasylenko - we have seen incredible bravery and extraordinary determination." #SNP22
NS: "Ukraine - you are an inspiration to the world.

And we will always stand with you." #SNP22
NS: "We are not on the front line of this war.

But Ukraine’s victory in the battle between democracy and tyranny is vital for all of us.

The Scottish Government will continue to do everything we can to help." #SNP22
NS: "We are helping enforce sanctions and isolate Russia.

We have provided funds for vital military equipment. And we have opened Scotland’s doors to those displaced." #SNP22
NS: "Initially, we committed to welcoming 3,000 people seeking refuge from the war.

I am pleased to say that we are now providing safety for more than 20,000.

To each and every one: our hearts go out to you." #SNP22
NS: "We know you yearn to go home but for as long as you need a place of sanctuary, be in no doubt.

You have a home here in Scotland." #SNP22
NS: "There are moments in history - as with Ukraine - when all of us must be prepared to make sacrifices to help defend fundamental freedoms.

But when global turbulence strikes, governments have a duty to act in ways that mitigate, rather than exacerbate, the impacts." #SNP22
NS: "When it comes to the cost of living crisis - and so much else besides - this UK government is utterly failing in that duty.

Each and every day, its actions are making matters worse." #SNP22
NS: "We last gathered together as a party in October 2019.

Back then, the Tories had just elected a new leader.

Westminster was in meltdown." #SNP22
NS: "A new Prime Minister was driving through a disastrous policy agenda, despite warnings of its dire economic impact.

And here we are, all over again. Another spin on the Tory misery-go-round. This time the carousel is speeding up." #SNP22
NS: "It took the Tories 3 years to realise Boris Johnson was a disaster.

With Liz Truss, it took them just three weeks." #SNP22
NS: "She caused mayhem in the markets with her decision to borrow billions of pounds to fund tax cuts for the richest.

Borrowing to be repaid by eye watering austerity cuts and a raid on the incomes of the poorest.

It is unconscionable." #SNP22
NS: "The Prime Minister’s justification is that she is going for growth.

Let me tell you what kind of growth that will be.

Growth in the gap between rich and poor.

Growth in the rates of poverty.

Growth in the pressure on our NHS and other public services." #SNP22
NS: "And, without any doubt - growth in the deep disgust the public feel for all of it.

The truth is massive hand-outs for the wealthiest at the expense of everyone else do nothing for the economy.

All they do is turbo-charge inequality." #SNP22
NS: "No SNP Government will ever inflict on Scotland such an immoral, self-defeating disaster of a policy.

Instead we will continue to use our powers and resources to help those most in need.

Not as an act of charity - but in our collective interest." #SNP22
NS: "Here is what we stand for. Not hoping, against all evidence to the contrary, that wealth will suddenly and magically start trickling down.

But instead lifting people up so they can contribute their full potential." #SNP22
NS: "I am proud of the work the Scottish Government is doing to tackle child poverty.

The Scottish Child Payment is unique in the United Kingdom.

It is paid to eligible families with children up to age six.

It started at 10 pounds per week." #SNP22
NS: "At Conference last year, I announced we would double it to twenty.

Five weeks from today we will increase it again, to 25 pounds a week.

Vital financial help for more than 100,000 children, delivered in time for Christmas." #SNP22
NS: "On the same day we increase the Payment, we will also extend it to families with children up to age 16.

I know I’m biased, but I think that’s the sign of a government with the right priorities." #SNP22
NS: "But we need to do more because we know this winter is going to be really tough.

Rather than looking forward to Christmas, too many families will be dreading it.

Dreading it because they don’t know if they can afford to heat their homes or even pay for food." #SNP22
NS: "As part of our help to the poorest families over the last year, we have made quarterly “bridging payments” of £130.

These have gone to children and young people in receipt of free school meals, but who don’t qualify for the Child Payment." #SNP22
NS: "Today I can announce that the final instalment – ahead of the extension of the Child Payment and due in the next few weeks – will not be £130.

We will double it to £260.

That will help put food on the Christmas table for families of 145,000 children & young people." #SNP22
NS: "I don’t pretend it will make all of their worries go away - no government with our limited powers can ever do that.

But I hope this investment of almost £20 million will bring a bit of Christmas cheer to those who need it most." #SNP22
NS: "We have used the powers of our Parliament to deliver the unique child payment

Last Thursday, we took further action to help combat the cost of living crisis." #SNP22
NS: "The Scottish Government’s emergency Bill to protect tenants was passed by Parliament.

The result: a rent freeze in operation in Scotland over the winter until at least the end of March next year." #SNP22
NS: "But as we have acted to help those in need, what about the UK Government?

It is difficult to overstate the calamity of their actions." #SNP22
NS: "Back in 2014, the Westminster establishment told us it was the UK’s standing in the world; its economic strength; and its stability that made independence impossible." #SNP22
NS: "Now they say it’s the UK’s isolation, its weakness and instability - the very conditions they created - that means change can’t happen.

As far as Westminster is concerned, it’s heads they win, tails we lose." #SNP22
NS: "And what that is delivering for Scotland is:

Brexit. More austerity. Homeowners facing real hardship. And hundreds of thousands in poverty." #SNP22
NS: "That is not strength and stability. It is chaos and catastrophe. All of that is on the Tories.

But we should remember that their ability to do it is has too often been aided and abetted by Labour." #SNP22
NS: "In 2014, Labour joined forces with the Tories.

They said then that Westminster Tory government was better for Scotland than self-government. And incredibly they’re doing it all over again." #SNP22
NS: "It wasn’t easy to understand back then.

But given everything that has happened since, it is utterly inexplicable now.

Take Brexit.

Imposed on Scotland against our will - and doing real, lasting damage to our interests, our economy and our young people." #SNP22
NS: "Labour is now just as committed to Brexit - a hard Brexit - as the Tories.

At least the Tories believe in it. Labour doesn’t.

Yet, rather than make the principled argument - which they could now win in England - they cower away from it." #SNP22
NS: "They abandon all principle for fear of upsetting the apple cart.

Bluntly - they are willing to chuck Scotland under Boris Johnson’s Brexit bus to get the keys to Downing Street.

Letting down Scotland. Same old Labour." #SNP22
NS: "For Scotland, there is a fundamental democratic issue here.

And it has real-life consequences.

Whether it’s Tory or Labour; Labour or Tory.

It’s not us who gets to decide.

Our votes don’t determine who gets to occupy number 10." #SNP22
NS: "For Scotland, the problem is not just which party is in power at Westminster.

The problem is Westminster." #SNP22
NS: "And to fix that, to make sure we get the governments that the largest number of us vote for always, not just occasionally.

For that, my friends, we need Scotland’s independence." #SNP22
NS: "Independence is not a panacea - for any nation - but it is about hope for a better future.

We all want Scotland to be a country in which no child goes to bed hungry." #SNP22
NS: "A place where everyone can afford to heat their home; Where our vast energy resources benefit all who live here, and help save the planet.

None of that should be radical. But it must be the foundation of everything we aspire to." #SNP22
NS: "For as long as I am First Minister, by the way conference, I intend that to be for quite some time. My job - our job - is not done.

For as long as I am First Minister, I will do everything in my power to build the better Scotland we all want to see." #SNP22
NS: "I know some people ask - and it is not an illegitimate question - why propose a referendum in the midst of a cost of living crisis?

The answer is in the question. The answer is the cost of living crisis." #SNP22
NS: "It is the Tory response to it.

It is the financial chaos.

And it is the damage of Brexit.

All of that is laying bare, each and every day, the harm being done to people in Scotland because we are not independent." #SNP22
NS: "Over the next two days the Supreme Court will consider whether the current law allows the Scottish Parliament to legislate for an advisory referendum.

If Westminster had any respect at all for Scottish democracy, this court hearing would not be necessary." #SNP22
NS: "But Westminster has no such respect.

That means this issue was always destined to end up in court, sooner or later.

Better, in my view, that it is sooner." #SNP22
NS: "If the Court decides in the way we hope it does, on 19 October next year, there will be an independence referendum." #SNP22
NS: "And if the court doesn’t decide that way?

First, and obviously, we will respect that judgment. We believe in the rule of law.

And as a party - and a movement - we will, of course, reflect." #SNP22
NS: "But fundamentally, it will leave us with a very simple choice.

Put our case for independence to the people in an election or give up on Scottish democracy.

I don’t know about you - actually I suspect I do - but I will never, ever, give up on Scottish democracy." #SNP22
NS: "For now, the question of process - the ‘how’ of securing independence - is in the hands of judges.

It is for us to crack on with answering the question ‘why’.

Polls last week show that support for independence is rising." #SNP22
NS: "But remember, polls are just momentary snapshots in time. They go up and down.

Much more significant are the findings of the latest British Social Attitudes survey." #SNP22
NS: "Ten years ago, support for independence was at 23 per cent.

Five years ago, 45 per cent.

Now - in that gold standard measure of public opinion - support for independence stands at 52 per cent." #SNP22
NS: "As we know, it is even higher amongst young people.

So it is tempting, sometimes, to assume an inevitability about independence.

That the arc of history is moving firmly in its direction." #SNP22
NS: "I hope and believe that will turn out to be true.

But we would be wrong - utterly wrong - to take it for granted. Our job is to make the case and win the argument.

That means not just talking to ourselves, but reaching out to others not yet persuaded." #SNP22
NS: "I remember in the 2014 campaign speaking at a public meeting in Leith. It was jam-packed.

So busy, in fact, that the organisers asked those who had already decided to vote Yes to leave, so that those still undecided could hear the arguments." #SNP22
NS: "That is the approach I want us to take now. I do want us to resolve today that, from here on, we will speak less to each other, and more to those outside our ranks.

I know that some watching at home will never be persuaded to vote Yes." #SNP22
NS: "I know that some watching at home will never be persuaded to vote Yes.

You oppose independence as strongly - and from as much principle - as we support it." #SNP22
NS: "I respect that. That is democracy.

And please remember - whatever happens in future, Scotland belongs to you as much as it does to us.

Scotland belongs to all of us." #SNP22
NS: "And for those who want to be convinced but still have questions and doubts.

It is our job to persuade, reassure and inspire." #SNP22
NS: "One of the ironies of the independence debate, is that so many of the institutions that people associate with Britishness;

Institutions that have shaped our shared history;

Like the NHS, a fair social security system, public service broadcasting." #SNP22
NS: "The threat to these institutions comes not from an independent Scotland.

But from UK Governments that are dismantling or undermining them.

With independence, we can do more to protect them." #SNP22
NS: "Let’s take one of those institutions – our most precious public service.

The NHS is under enormous pressure right now.

It delivers outstanding care, within waiting time targets, for the vast majority of those who need it." #SNP22
NS: "Today, I want us to pay tribute to each and every individual who works within it." #SNP22
NS: "But the pressures on the NHS mean that - despite their dedication - too many people are waiting too long. That is why we are delivering record investment.

And it is why we are doing everything we can to give our NHS workers a fair pay rise." #SNP22
NS: "Fast diagnosis and reliable, quality healthcare matters whatever your condition.

But it is especially important for those with cancer.

The best chance of surviving cancer remains early detection and treatment." #SNP22
NS: "Over the past year, we have established three new fast-track cancer diagnostic centres - in Ayrshire & Arran, Dumfries & Galloway and Fife.

They have already supported hundreds of patients. More than one in seven were found to have cancer." #SNP22
NS: "Around half of them were from the poorest parts of our country - so these centres are helping tackle health inequality too. Fast Track Cancer Diagnosis Centres work." #SNP22
NS: "That’s why I’m delighted to confirm today that 2 more centres will open next year - one in the Borders and one in Lanarkshire.

And by the end of this Parliament there will be a Fast Track Cancer Diagnosis Centre in every heath board in Scotland." #SNP22
NS: "That is just one example of how we are supporting our NHS. That job is the most important our government has right now.

Management of the NHS is our responsibility. It is no-one else’s." #SNP22
NS: "But the fact is our ability to fund it properly depends on decisions taken at Westminster.

When they cut our budget, or when they crash our economy, that makes it harder for us to protect the health service." #SNP22
NS: "And if - as some Tories are now openly arguing - they move away from the very basis on which it was founded and towards an insurance based alternative, that will destroy our NHS.

With independence that will never happen." #SNP22
NS: "We will protect its founding principles.

With independence we could choose to embed a universal NHS in a written constitution.

A constitutional right to health care free at the point of need. If the SNP is in government, that is exactly what we will do." #SNP22
NS: "I know some see independence as turning our back on the rest of the UK. It is not.

It is about recasting our relationship as one of equals.

Across these islands we share history, family connections and friendships." #SNP22
NS: "These things matter just as much to supporters of independence as to anyone else.

In fact I’m willing to bet that the nations of these islands will work together even better with independence than we do now." #SNP22
NS: "Scotland will still be a member of the British-Irish Council.

The difference is that - like the Republic of Ireland now - we will be there as an independent country." #SNP22
NS: "You know, there is a point here that at first glance might seem curious. But, in my view, it is becoming increasingly true.

Independence is actually the best way to protect the partnership on which the United Kingdom was founded. A voluntary partnership of nations." #SNP22
NS: "Right now - and make no mistake about this -

It is an aggressive unionism that is undermining that partnership.

Westminster’s denial of Scottish democracy; full frontal attacks on devolution; a basic lack of respect. If there is tension, that is what is causing it." #SNP22
NS: "It is Scottish independence, a new partnership of the isles, that can renew the whole idea of our nations working together for the common good.

England, Scotland, Wales, the island of Ireland.

We will always be the closest of friends. We will always be family." #SNP22
NS: "But we can achieve a better relationship - a true partnership of equals – when we win Scotland’s independence." #SNP22
NS: "I know that what gives many people most pause for thought on independence is the economy.

People can see all too clearly now that the UK does not offer economic strength or financial security." #SNP22
NS: "And yet still - and rightly - they want to know that independence will make Scotland’s economy stronger not weaker.

That is fair - and especially now, entirely understandable." #SNP22
NS: "Of course, it is equally fair to point out that so much of the uncertainty and crisis we face is not because of independence.

It is the opposite. Once again it is because we are not independent." #SNP22
NS: "Independence is not a miracle economic cure. But let this message ring out today.

We can do better than this. We can do so much better than this. " #SNP22
NS: "And let’s remember these three basic facts.

First, Scotland is not benefiting right now from the so-called ‘broad shoulders’ of the UK.

Second - and let there be no doubt about this - we have got everything it takes to be a successful independent country." #SNP22
NS: "Extraordinary resources, industries and talent in abundance.

And third, independence is not an untested idea.

Independence is normal." #SNP22
NS: "For countries of Scotland’s size or even smaller, independence is an outstanding success.

Earlier this year, the Scottish Government published evidence illustrating that point." #SNP22
NS: "Listen now to these facts and then think of the untapped potential Scotland has.

Compared to the UK, these other countries with so many similarities to Scotland are:

Wealthier. More equal. They have higher productivity. Lower poverty rates. Lower child poverty." #SNP22
NS: "And lower pensioner poverty. They have higher social mobility. They spend more on Research and Development. They have higher business investment.

In short, these countries combine economic dynamism with social solidarity." #SNP22
NS: "They are among the most successful societies the world has ever known. And it is their success - not a failing UK economy - that Scotland should aim to match.

With independence, we won’t emulate that success overnight." #SNP22
NS: "But the big, burning question is this:

If all of these countries can achieve all of that - why not Scotland?" #SNP22
NS: "I can confirm that one week today we will publish the next in our Building a New Scotland series of papers. It will make the economic case for independence.

It will set out how we can build a new, sustainable economy based on our massive renewable energy resources." #SNP22
NS: "It will show how in an energy rich, independent Scotland, we can deliver lower prices and stronger security of supply.

And on energy, let me give this commitment. Unlike our UK counterparts, the Scottish Government will not be issuing licences for fracking." #SNP22
NS: "In the economic prospectus we will set out how in an independent Scotland we can secure fair work.

We will repeal Westminster’s anti trade union legislation.

We will end age discrimination for those on the minimum wage." #SNP22
NS: "We will show how businesses can benefit from independence.

With EU membership they’ll be back inside the world’s biggest single market.

With a fairer migration policy & freedom of movement restored, they will have access to workers from Europe and across the world." #SNP22
NS: "They will have new opportunities to influence government policy through a social partnership approach.

In short, we will show how we can break with the low productivity, high inequality Brexit based UK economy." #SNP22
NS: "And use the full powers of independence to build an inclusive, fair, wellbeing economy that works for everyone.

An economy that works for everyone. That is the prize of independence." #SNP22
NS: "Moving to independence and making it work will, of course, take time, hard work and good judgment.

There will be many challenges along the way. Our economic prospectus will be clear on these too." #SNP22
NS: "If the past three weeks have taught us anything it is that a country’s fiscal and monetary policy must be sustainable and command confidence.

We will not shy away from that." #SNP22
NS: "Our approach to borrowing with the new powers of independence will be responsible and for a purpose.

Let me give one example of that - a central proposal in the paper we will publish next week." #SNP22
NS: "We propose to invest remaining oil revenues and use our borrowing powers, not to cut tax for the richest, but to set up an independence investment fund.

The Building a New Scotland Fund will deliver up to £20bn of investment in the first decade of independence." #SNP22
NS: "In practical terms, a fund like this could support a massive programme to decarbonise housing, cut fuel bills and reduce fuel poverty.

It could finance the building of thousands more affordable homes." #SNP22
NS: "Invest in local renewable energy projects, helping communities own assets and wield more influence over their use.

It will help the transition to Net Zero. Build resilient communities." #SNP22
NS: "And kick-start the sustainable economic growth so important for our newly independent nation.

Combining Scotland’s abundant resources with the powers of independence to benefit this and future generations.

That is what independence is all about." #SNP22
NS: "A week ago one of the most famous men in the history of the independence movement, Ian Hamilton, died at the age of 97.

As a young man in 1950, Ian - together with Kay Matheson, Gavin Vernon and Alan Stuart - repatriated the Stone of Destiny from Westminster Abbey." #SNP22
NS: "He called it an “absolutely splendid adventure”. I’m sure it was that. But it was so much more besides.

In 1950 and, to be frank for years afterwards, independence must have seemed like an impossible dream." #SNP22
NS: "All of us here today still have a big job still to do to win independence.

But we no longer face such impossible odds.

We are the independence generation. We are the inheritors of the cause kept alive by Ian Hamilton and his generation." #SNP22
NS: "And I believe - firmly - that we will be the first, in the modern world, to live in an independent Scotland.

Let me tell you why I say that.

A couple of weeks ago I had a conversation with a woman that summed up a question I think a lot of people have." #SNP22
NS: "She said that she would like Scotland to be independent. She thought it would be good. But she also worried that getting there would be hard.

So her question was this - is it essential? That got me thinking." #SNP22
NS: "For many people, like Ian, like all of us in this hall, we just believe it is right.

That Scotland could and should be an independent nation. But is it essential?

Today, probably more than at any time in my life, the answer to that question is yes." #SNP22
NS: "Independence is essential. It is essential to escape Westminster control and mismanagement.

Essential to get the governments we vote for.

To properly protect our NHS.

To build a new partnership of equals with the other nations on these islands." #SNP22
NS: "It is essential if we want to be back in the European Union.

And it is essential if we want the people who live here to determine the future of this extraordinary country." #SNP22
NS: "The country that always tugs at our heartstrings.

The country that we all care so much about.

There are two things that we – the independence generation - must never, ever lose faith in." #SNP22
NS: "They have sustained us in good times and bad, throughout all the years and decades.

First, is the fundamental right of the nation of Scotland to self-determination.

And the second is what history teaches us. And that's the overwhelming power of democracy to triumph" #SNP22
NS: "The period ahead will see some of the greatest challenges our country has faced in many years.

But a great opportunity is also in sight. To win and build the better future we know is possible.

A better future as an independent nation." #SNP22
NS: "Welcoming, diverse, full of love and compassion.

In tough times, let us inspire with hope in our hearts.

Let us lift our eyes.

Put our shoulders to the wheel and build a better future for this and generations to come." #SNP22
NS: "Friends, with optimism, confidence and determination.

We can now finish the job. And we will." #SNP22

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More from @theSNP

Oct 9
📺 Watch @JohnSwinney's keynote address to the #SNP22 Conference.

👉🏼 Follow the updates live on this thread, or on snp.org/live.
JS: "What a great pleasure it is to be back together, in person, at an SNP conference. Seeing old friends, making new ones.

Debating the issues of the day. Making the policies that will help shape tomorrow." #SNP22
JS: "Creating the space for this Party – together – to take the next decisive steps to deliver Scotland’s Independence.

While technology allowed us to continue to meet during the pandemic, a virtual conference cannot compare to the hustle and bustle of being together." #SNP22
Read 71 tweets
Oct 9
📺 Watch @Feorlean's speech to the #SNP22 conference.

👉🏼 Follow the updates live on this thread, or on snp.org/live.
MR: "Every time in recent years that I have stood here and looked out at Conference- and it is great to be doing so once again – I remember the first ever SNP Conference I attended." #SNP22
MR: "It was in Rothesay in 1983, which means – amazingly – that it is almost 40 years ago." #SNP22
Read 37 tweets
Oct 9
📺 Watch @AngusRobertson's speech to the #SNP22 conference.

👉🏼 Follow the updates live on this thread, or on snp.org/live.
AR: "Good morning to SNP Conference delegates, observers and viewers, both domestic and internationally.

Its a pleasure and an honour to be able to speak to you this morning about the preparations towards independence, which are being made by the Scottish Government." #SNP22
AR: "Last year, the issue of a Scottish independence referendum was decided by the electorate in the Scottish Parliament elections.

A record majority of MSPs were returned to Holyrood, elected with a mandate that a referendum should be held." #SNP22
Read 25 tweets
Oct 9
📺 Watch @NicolaSturgeon live on this morning's @bbclaurak show, kicking off the second day of #SNP22 in Aberdeen.

⏰ Tune in to BBC One from 9am, or watch on iPlayer: bbc.co.uk/iplayer/live/b…
@NicolaSturgeon @bbclaurak 📣 @NicolaSturgeon: "The Supreme Court will next week consider the question of, does the Scottish Parliament gave the competence to legislate for a referendum.

Should the answer to that be yes, we have the plans ready to go, while refreshing and updating the substantive case."
@NicolaSturgeon @bbclaurak 📣 @NicolaSturgeon: "If the other side of this debate really believed that people in Scotland don't want a referendum and would vote against independence, they would be clamouring for a referendum."
Read 6 tweets
Oct 8
📺 Watch @Ianblackford_MP's opening speech to the #SNP22 Conference.

👉🏼 Follow the updates live on this thread, or on snp.org/live. Image
.@Ianblackford_MP: "I just want to pay tribute to the courage of Lesia Vasylenko who we all had the privilege of hearing from earlier.

A remarkable ambassador for her country and someone who gives us all a real sense of the unshakeable spirit of the Ukrainian people." #SNP22
IB: "Today we renew our support for her, for her country and we also renew our opposition to the Russian aggression, occupation, and Illegal annexation of their country." #SNP22
Read 74 tweets
Oct 8
📺 Watch @KeithBrownSNP's opening speech to the #SNP22 Conference.

👉🏼 Follow the updates live on this thread, or on snp.org/live.
KB: “Welcome to the 88th Annual National Conference.

It’s been too long since we last gathered in person as the SNP family. To rekindle life-long friendships and to forge new ones." #SNP22
KB: “To share stories old and new, and to fondly remember absent friends.

In the darkest days of the pandemic, moments like this seemed a distant prospect. But here we are – and it’s fabulous to be back." #SNP22
Read 59 tweets

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