Sarwar emphasizes tackling Scotland’s pressing challenges in the near term and outlines a five-year plan to address major issues.

Green figures, including Patrick Harvie, say Labour’s position shows contempt for Scotland and democracy, insisting Scotland should decide its own future rather than Westminster control.

The broader Labour stance, voiced by Streeting and ministers, emphasizes closing the door on another referendum to focus on national stability.

The SNP and Scottish Greens condemn Wes Streeting and Labour’s stance on a new Scottish independence referendum, arguing it undermines Scottish democracy and strengthens the case for independence as voters are urged to back independence on May 7 for a fresh start.

Wes Streeting dismisses another independence referendum, pointing to a long line of perceived crises—from the financial crash to Brexit, COVID, and wars—as reasons to move on.

Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar argues that independence supporters must set out a viable route to a second referendum while he concentrates on domestic reform now.

During a Sunday BBC debate, Sarwar says his priority is persuading voters to choose immediate reform over another referendum, noting the SNP has governed for twenty years and calling for five years of focused action on big issues.

The SNP casts Scotland as energy-rich but facing high bills and Westminster chaos, arguing independence would enable using energy wealth to relieve living costs and protect the NHS.

Labour figures, including Streeting and health ministers, reiterate there will be no second Scottish referendum, citing ongoing chaos and crises since Brexit.