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The National
3 days ago
- Politics
- The National
Lots more fleshing out of the ‘how and when' for indy will be required
Independence is not for me but for the people of Scotland, and that dream must be realised within a feasible timescale as part of a clear and defined plan. My take from Tuesday's National, particularly the sentiment from the letters pages, is that of disappointment. Disappointment we do not have that clarity and the plan; disappointment we are still not shouting out the benefits of independence and the many downsides of today's Union; disappointment with the lack of vision; disappointment with lack of inspired campaigning; disappointment that the constitutional convention is not in place; disappointment that independence – the raison d'etre of the SNP – has not been promoted as we continue to persuade the undecided, primarily through good governance. After 18 years, how many more years do we need? Do we really believe this will translate into a few more percentage points for independence no matter what the Unionists throw at us? READ MORE: SNP's losing strategy for by-election took the electorate for fools Voting SNP1 and SNP2 is seen as a folly. Perhaps one for James Kelly – how many independence-supporting MSPs do we get by voting SNP1 and SNP2 compared with SNP1 and Green or Alba or other as vote 2? That clarity might help me and other voters. James Dornan MSP advocates keeping John Swinney, recognising the SNP and John's achievements. I see no advantage in change at this point. However, James says that we must put indy left, right and centre. He implies good governance over the years. He does not properly explain why indy has not been to the fore and kept to the fore of late. James says a referendum will follow a pro-indy majority. I suggest a lot more fleshing out of 'exactly how and when' is needed, together with a detailed plan to counter the many obstacles that lie ahead, courtesy of the overwhelming pro-Union media, the other political parties and the establishment. I will remain optimistic that independence will be achieved. It would be good to see a new citizens' convention or constitutional convention in place and positive contributors such as Believe in Scotland and Common Weal help drive independence. Ken Howells Longniddry IN his letter 'Will the SNP once again seek 'both votes'?' (June 10), James Duncan refers to the 'stupid call for 'Both votes SNP'' and ... and the possibility of 'list voters being encouraged to vote for other independence-supporting candidates on the list'. There was a letter published in The National on Tuesday, December 10, 2024 which explained why this is not possible. READ MORE: The SNP can't suggest we use our second votes for a different party James may be thinking of what is called 'apparentement' in mainland Europe, in which electoral law permits political parties to form alliances for an election campaign. Such an arrangement is not permissible by current electoral law here. If such an arrangement was possible, the result of the Scottish Parliament elections in 2021 could have been more than 75% of the seats with almost 49% of the vote – not very democratic. If a political party has the highest quotient at any time during the calculations for allocation of list seats, it MUST be allocated that seat even if it has all of the constituency seats in a region. Michael Follon Glenrothes MORE smoke and mirrors from the Labour Party and the UK Government. From my recollection, this is the third time the UK Government has proclaimed financial backing for the Acorn carbon capture and storage project (proposed 20 years ago) but there is still no money on the table. While tens of billions of pounds continue to flow into projects south of the Border, Scotland is supposed to be grateful for the UK Government now declaring financial support for the Edinburgh exascale supercomputer a year after it cancelled funding. Increased public spending commitments have been cynically hailed by Labour Party politicians without reference to projected inflation increases or different spending choices made north and south of the Border. READ MORE: Fraser of Allander calls out Labour's Spending Review claim To cap it all, Governor Murray now hypocritically says that the Scottish Government did not spend last year's budget increase 'wisely' when much of it was spent on increased public-sector wages while the Scottish Government also continued to mitigate the effects of Westminster-imposed austerity. Or has the 'Governor' (also referred to by some as the 'Viceroy') now abandoned the last vestiges of socialist principles he presumably once held? If that is the case, why are Scottish trade unions still supporting a Labour Party that in government continues to betray the poor and disadvantaged in Scotland while also being complicit in the continuing slaughter and devastation in Gaza? Stan Grodynski Longniddry, East Lothian THE words of the UK Chancellor 'we are renewing Britain' were heard in the House of Commons on Wednesday, yet what followed left questions unanswered. The Chancellor announced a 0.8% increase to Scotland's block grant, yet most UK Government departments were allocated more than 2%, prompting the question 'where is Scotland's 2%'? Catriona C Clark Falkirk
Daily Record
01-06-2025
- Politics
- Daily Record
Scottish independence support surges over fears Nigel Farage could be next Prime Minister
The Reform UK leader is expected to campaign in Scotland for the first time since 2019 ahead of this week's Hamilton by-election. Support for Scottish independence is surging over fears that Nigel Farage could become the next prime minister. Voters north of the Border have become increasingly disillusioned with Labour's first year back in power at Westminster but many also view the rise of Reform UK with concern, new polling has found. A survey by Norstat put support for ending the Union on 54 per cent, a joint record high for a poll carried out by the firm. Asked how they would vote in an independence referendum if Farage was already in Downing Street, 58 per cent of Scots said they would vote Yes. Support for Scotland leaving the UK has remained high over the last two years despite a steep drop in the popularity of the SNP. While John Swinney remains on course to emerge as the leader of the biggest party after the next Holyrood elections, support for the SNP in the constituency vote is at 33 per cent - a drop of two points in the last two months, and a decline of over 10 points from 2021. But the Norstat poll is a blow to Anas Sarwar, with fewer than one in five Scots saying they plan to vote Labour next May. The results were published ahead of the Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse by-election on Thursday, which is viewed as three-way race between the SNP, Labour and Reform. Farage is expected to visit the constituency this week - the first time he has campaigned in Scotland since 2019. If the survey was replicated on polling day, Labour would have 20 seats while Reform would make a breakthrough by winning 18. The Conservatives would be left on 17, the Lib Dems 11 and the Greens nine. Such as a result would mean the SNP would be two MSPs short of a pro-independence majority if they formed a pact with the Greens. It could make any demands for an IndyRef2 difficult to achieve if a majority of MSPs rejected calls from the SNP on the issue. Mark Diffley, a pollster from Diffley Partnership, said: "The SNP and wider nationalist movement will be encouraged by the poll's findings of 54 per cent support for independence. "But what will concern the pro-Union parties the most is the finding that the prospect of Nigel Farage as PM would push support for independence close to the symbolically important 60 per cent. "The rise of Reform is not only hitting Labour and the Tories at the ballot box but represents an increasing threat to the Union."
Miami Herald
15-05-2025
- Miami Herald
San Francisco for Free: Best Kid-Friendly Activities That Won't Cost a Dime
If you think planning a trip with your kids to San Francisco will be expensive, think again! This magical and iconic city along the bay is full of family-friendly activities and adventures, and the best part is that many of these activities don't cost you a dime! From watching the playful sea lions at Pier 39, exploring the Golden Gate with views and epic playgrounds, and exploring the Golden City with kids under 18, it can be magical and affordable. The Golden Gate Park is the city's largest urban park and the country's third most visited urban park. More than 1.5 miles of gardens, open green space, and parks that are perfect for letting your kids run off their energy and exploring through nature. Some of the gardens have an entrance fee, like the Japanese gardens and the Conservatory of Flowers; however, each has specific days and times with free entry! Location: 501 Stanyan St, San Francisco, CA 94117 Days for Free Entry: The Botanical Gardens: Free daily admission from 7:30 am-9 am. Enter at the Main Gate of Flowers: Free day is the first Tuesday of each Tea Gardens: Free admission from 9 am-10 am on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday each week Join our Travel Tribe! Sign up for our newsletter now! If you want to save some money on this trip, instead of visiting the aquarium at Pier 39, go to Pier 39's waterfront and watch the playful and entertaining sea lions! It is like watching a sport! Especially when the dock workers come to kick them off of one pier and they all bark about until they "plop" themselves onto another dock. I can attest that kids of all ages (and even adults) find it extremely entertaining. Location:Waterfront at Pier 39 What started initially as a large sand dune, the city turned it into a public park in 1850. Named for the pro-Union rallies held there on the eve of the Civil War. Nowadays, there is always something happening in Union Square, including free walking tours, festive outdoor concerts, and lots of seasonal events! Location:Union Square Plaza – 333 Post St. San Francisco, CA 94123When to Visit: Open daily to the public Located right along the Embarcadero, the Ferry Building is a must-visit for families with kids looking to enjoy good food, fresh air, stunning bay views, and (bonus points) bathrooms-all in one convenient spot. You can also visit the Ferry Building farmers market (on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays). With plenty of samples to snack on, outdoor seating, and room for strollers, this is the perfect stop in your travel itinerary when visiting San Francisco with kids. Location:1 Ferry Building, San Francisco, CA 94105When to Visit: Open daily 7 am – 8 pm Welcome to a slice of history! Fort Point is a Civil War-era base perched just under the Golden Gate Bridge, where your kids can play around the brick corridors and climb on cannon-lined rooftops. With interactive talks with park rangers and a view of the Golden Gate Bridge, it's a free and fun way to mix history with a bit of adventure. Location:201 Marine Dr, San Francisco, CA 94129When to Visit: Friday – Sunday 10 am – 5 pm San Francisco is one of the only places in the world where you can get an actual experience of riding a vintage rail system. If you decide to ride one of the historical trams, you can follow up on that experience by visiting the San Francisco Railway Museum. This museum features a full-sized replica of a San Francisco streetcar where your kids can learn how it felt to be at the controls. Location:77 Steuart Street, San Francisco, CA 94105 – across from the Ferry building at the F-line Steuart Street to Visit: Open Wednesday-Saturday from 12 pm-5 pm When your kids have a lot of energy to burn off (trust me, I feel you), I have the perfect activity for you! Near the Little Marina Green Picnic Area, you'll find the Wave Oregon tucked down along the waterline. Designed by Peter Richards and collaborated with master stone mason, George Gonzales in 1986. The views of the Golden Gate Bridge are also worth adding to your travel plans. Location:83 Marina Green Drive San Francisco, CA 94123When to Visit: The Wave Organ sounds best at high tide. Check the tides. Welcome to every kid's dream, a museum where you can touch everything! The Randall Museum is the perfect blend of science, nature, and creativity, and with free admission, it is the best way to spend a day if the weather turns sour. With live California's native animals, hands-on STEM exhibits, model trains, and an amazing indoor treehouse for toddlers. With a café located within the museum as well, it is the perfect foul weather, indoor activity to do with your kids in San Francisco. Location:199 Museum Way, San Francisco, CA 94114 (Corona Heights)When to Visit: Tuesday–Saturday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM The Sutro Baths are moving away from the Golden Gate Bridge, over to the Western side of the city on the coast. These baths are circa 1896 public bathhouses that once held seven saltwater public pools, making it the largest indoor water public complex at the time. Today, you and your family can explore the rocky paths and the tide pools. With plenty of room for your kids to explore, you might want to think about packing a picnic, it is a perfect Location: 1004 Point Lobos Ave, San Francisco, CA 94121 This is a fun, lesser-known museum! Tucked away on the third floor of the Hilton San Francisco Financial District, the Chinese Culture Center is a museum that constantly rotates artwork, interactive workshops, and cultural festivals. ArtBuds is another program offered by the Chinese Culture Center designed for families with kids ages 3-7 to learn about art with hands-on learning activities! The museum offers a 30-minute tour where an arts specialist guides parents and children through an engaging and hands-on art activity so you and your kids can learn about art together! Location:750 Kearny St 3rd Floor, San Francisco, CA 94108When to Visit: Tuesday – Saturday 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Large cities like San Francisco have numerous means of transportation, even when you're traveling with kids. Here is a short breakdown of the best forms of transportation when visiting San Francisco with kids: Muni (Buses, Metro, and Cable Cars): When your kids can experience transportation in true San Francisco fashion! Hopping on one of the legendary cable cars, the light rail, or one of the many city buses is the best way to get around downtown! Why it's suitable for kids: Kids 5 and under ride on Muni for free, and older kids ride for reduced fares. Best for: Getting around downtown, including the Mission, Golden Gate Park, Fisherman's Wharf, and everywhere in Tip: Pick up a Clipper Pass or a Muni Passport to save yourself money and time. BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit)` If you are traveling longer distances, the BART will be your best "budget-friendly" bet. You can take the BART to the SFO airport, Oakland, and as far as the East Bay. It is a frequent, fast and stroller-friendly transit option. Walking There is SO much to see around San Francisco that if you don't hoof it for part of your trip, you're really going to be missing out. Plan some walking time during your trip. We carved out time to walk from the Ferry Building to Pier 39, and there is SO much to see and experience along the way – it is worth the effort. Why it's suitable for kids: Because there is so much to see around the city, it helps keep kids distracted from the effort of walking and engaged with the world around themBest for: Exploring around more compact neighborhoods like Chinatown, Haight-Ashbury, and North BeachTravel Tip: Good shoes! I cannot stress good shoes enough, it will make all the difference for everyone! Also, bring a stroller with good brakes; some hills can be pretty steep. Ferries Take a day to explore outside of San Francisco during your trip. Though the downtown area could keep you busy for a while, you would still be missing out. Why it's great: Taking the ferry to Sausalito or Alcatraz is easy to arrange and a great way to see more of the Bay Area. Best for: Spectacular views of the city from the water without paying for a tour Travel Tip: Bring a jacket, not just for taking the ferry, but as a general rule of visiting San Francisco. The microclimate in the Bay Area can change rapidly from a cool morning to a cooking afternoon. Layers are your best friend. San Francisco is an excellent example of a large city that can also be affordable for families when traveling. With its many walkable neighborhoods and parks, incredible scenic views, and endless kid-friendly stops, this city is a giant playground for kids of all ages. From Tots to Young Adults: Best Hotels for Kids in San FranciscoFun Things to Do in San Francisco with Teens San Francisco Weekend Guide: Explore the Charm of the Bay AreaBest Beaches in San Francisco and Beyond The post San Francisco for Free: Best Kid-Friendly Activities That Won't Cost a Dime appeared first on She Buys Travel. Copyright © 2025 SheBuysTravel · All Rights Reserved
Daily Record
11-05-2025
- Politics
- Daily Record
John Swinney says Scottish independence will be 'central' to SNP 2026 election campaign
The First Minister said he would use the next 12 months to push his argument that Scots would be better off if they voted to end the Union. John Swinney today pledged Scottish independence would be "central" to the SNP's election campaign next year. The First Minister said he would use the next 12 months to push his argument that Scots would be better off if they voted to end the Union. The SNP is on course for another election victory at Holyrood in may 2026 despite losing support in the polls from its last win in 2021. The unpopularity of Keir Starmer's UK Government among Scots and the rise of Reform causing a further split among the pro-Union vote has handed Swinney a huge boost in his bid to remain in power. But there remains uncertainty over how exactly the Scottish Government can secure the right to hold a second referendum on independence given its comprehensive defeat at the Supreme Court in 2022 on the issue. "The arguments for independence will be central to the SNP's election campaign for 2026 and that will run through many of the arguments I make in the course of the next 12 months," he told the BBC. "We're now able to illustrate why Scotland would be better off with independence because we are seeing first hand the actions of a Labour government in Westminster following on from a Tory governments and neither of these governments will give us a pathway back into the European Union which is undermining the living standards of people in Scotland." Pressed on how he could deliver independence, the SNP leader claimed she would bring people together to show there is a "clear and demonstrable" consensus among Scots for breaking away. Swinney said: "What I want to do is bring Scotland together because Scotland is currently stuck, essentially because there's an aspiration in Scotland for us to have independence…but we have not got the means to achieve that because of the stances being taken by the United Kingdom government and I want to make sure is I bring people together sufficiently so there's a compelling voice for independence in Scotland.' He pointed to the 1997 referendum showed a 'demonstrable and clear' consensus of opinion that the country should have its own parliament. "What I want to make sure is I lead the debate in Scotland in a way that brings people together to reach that conclusion that independence represents the best way forward for Scotland and that we should have the right to choose that," he added.
