SNP Leader will formally launch the SNP's
general campaign at a rally in Glasgow tomorrow
(Sunday).
Addressing hundreds of activists,
as well as candidates from across Scotland, Mr Swinney is
expected to say:
“In the few weeks I have been
First Minister, I have been crystal clear that I am focussing on
people's top concerns.
“I'm proud of what the SNP has
done in Government. We're helping with the cost of living through
free prescriptions, the abolition of university tuition fees and
free bus travel for under-22s.
“In our NHS, Scotland has had the
best performing core A and E units in the UK for nine
years.
“On the economy, under the SNP,
Scotland has had faster economic growth, per head, than the
UK.
“On housing under the SNP
Scotland has seen 40% more affordable homes per head than in
England, and over 70% more than in Wales.
“And of course, we've introduced
the game-changing Scottish Child Payment."
Mr Swinney is expected to
add:
“Westminster decision-making has
meant austerity, Brexit and a cost of living crisis being imposed
on Scotland.
“A combination of Westminster
cuts and Brexit has reduced the money available for the NHS,
other public services and housing. Brexit alone has wiped
billions from the Scottish economy compared with EU membership.
And it's pushed up food and other household
costs.
“Given the UK is moving so badly
in the wrong direction I would be failing in my duty if I did not
set out what I believe is a better future for
Scotland.
“The opportunity of higher living
standards and a better funded NHS, with decisions about Scotland
made in Scotland. That's why I believe in
independence.
“I believe in bringing people
together. I believe in a politics of persuasion or, if that's not
possible, respectful disagreement.
“I believe in our wonderful,
diverse, inspiring country - that everyone should have a chance
to get on in life. It's why I believe so strongly in eradicating
child poverty.
“At this election it is those
principles that will guide my approach. So I am asking people to
vote SNP to remove the Tories from government.
"I'm asking people to vote SNP to
put Scotland's interests first. I'm asking people to vote for a
future made in Scotland, for Scotland."
