ALBA Party Westminster Leader Neale Hanvey MP Calls on Humza Yousaf to back Independence Convention

Neale Hanvey MP, Westminster leader of the Alba Party has called on new SNP leader and First Minister Humza Yousaf to back an Independence Convention.

Hanvey believes that by setting aside differences and working together towards a common goal, the movement can achieve its ultimate objective of securing Scotland's independence.

An independence convention, which would bring together all pro-independence parties, pressure groups and representatives of civic society, was backed by both Kate Forbes MSP and Ash Regan MSP during the SNP leadership contest.

Speaking today, Hanvey called for the constitutional convention of all Scotland’s pro-independence representatives to be backed by the new First Minister.

Mr Hanvey acknowledged that different groups within the independence movement may have different visions for an independent Scotland, but stressed that these differences should not lead to division or infighting.

"At this crucial junction on the road towards independence, it is important that we come together as a movement," said Hanvey. "We may have different ideas about what an independent Scotland should look like, but we share a common goal of breaking away from Westminster rule and creating a better future for our country. The establishment of an Independence Convention will ensure that the urgent necessity of Scottish independence will be at the top of the agenda of the First Minister and his Government. "

ALBA Party Westminster leader Neale Hanvey MP said:

"I echo those that have passed their congratulations onto Humza, but with a new Government now in place it’s time to ensure that building support for independence is one of its top priorities.

“ALBA Party welcomed during the SNP leadership contest that two of the three candidates backed an Independence Convention that would bring the entire movement together to build support for independence and ensure that Westminster’s feet are held to the fire.

“We now call on Humza Yousaf to help bring the independence movement back together by backing an independence convention. The cause of independence is bigger than any one political party and if the First Minister wants to bring Scotland closer to independence he should embrace the convention.”