SNP VOICE CONCERNS OVER AV REFERENDUM PLANS

Embargoed 0001 Thursday 30th September 2010


Attn: NEWSDESKS


POLITICAL CORRESPONDENTS


SNP MSPs will today raise their concerns over UK Government plans for an AV referendum with MPs


At today’s meeting between committees of the Scottish and Westminster Parliaments SNP MSP Bob Doris will say Westminster’s plan to hold the referendum on the same day as the next Scottish Parliament election is part of a “disrespect” agenda.


It has emerged that if the referendum is held on the same day as the Scottish Parliament elections the referendum would be the “lead” poll – meaning the Scottish Parliament result could be delayed.


Mr Doris said:


“The Tories and Lib Dems are pursuing a disrespect agenda when it comes to Scottish electors.


“On both the referendum and plans for fixed term parliaments at Westminster they are determined to push Scottish elections out of the way and ignore the priorities of Scottish voters. This kind of Westminster arrogance is not acceptable.


“After the 2007 elections serious reforms have been put in place to deliver smooth elections that will be damaged by the sudden imposition of a referendum.


“Leaving Scottish voters in limbo over their new Parliament while a referendum vote is counted is unacceptable and we will be making this clear to the MPs when they visit.


“At a time when voters will be making a key decision between the experience of the SNP Government in guiding Scotland through cuts and an inexperienced opposition voters deserve the respect.”