Andy Burnham’s speech a distraction from anti-democratic block on independence referendum, say Greens
The Scottish Greens have said Andy Burnham’s speech is a distraction from his anti-democratic block on a second independence referendum.
The Prime Minister said he was in Scotland with a “big offer” to give more power to people and places, but his speech in North Lanarkshire offered little substance.
While Andy Burnham said he was making a “genuine offer” to the Scottish Government to design a “new model of regional economic empowerment”, his remarks ignore the reality that Scotland doesn’t have the powers to make key decisions.
Scottish Greens co-leader Gillian Mackay said:
“Andy Burnham’s speech in Scotland today was a complete distraction from his ongoing anti-democratic block on a second independence referendum.
“It is not for Andy Burnham to decide that we should ‘move beyond the constitutional question’.
“It is notable that he refused to rule out an independence referendum during his time as Prime Minister – this is a challenge for the independence movement to create the biggest possible demand for one and keep the pressure on Westminster.
“Scotland has recently elected its largest pro-independence majority in the history of our Parliament. Andy Burnham cannot continue to promise greater devolution while ignoring the will of the Scottish people. It doesn’t add up.
“The Scottish Greens have long argued that local councils need real powers to build communities where everyone can thrive and that reform should be at the heart of this.
“But the Prime Minister is ignoring the reality that Scotland doesn’t have many of the powers it needs to make the decisions that would deliver fundamental change.
“While Andy Burnham is trying to frame this as two governments working together, we have heard empty promises like this from Westminster before.
“The people of Scotland deserve a choice in the future of their country through an independence referendum, but the Prime Minister seems content to try and impose his vision on us rather than listen to what voters want.
“It is simply more of the same from a Labour Government that continues to disrespect the will of the Scottish people.”