SNP: by-election win sign of referendum ‘surge’

THE SNP has welcomed a win at the first local by-election since the referendum, claiming the surge in support paves the way for a strong performance at the upcoming General and Holyrood elections over the next two years.

Yes supporters gather in Glasgow's George Square following the No vote. Picture: PA

Councillor Iain MacLean won the Oban North and Lorn by-election, with a 16 per cent uplift in support for the SNP.

Local SNP MSP Michael Russell said: “This is a tremendous result and I’m delighted for Councillor Iain MacLean; I have no doubt that he will serve all the people of Oban North and Lorn with dedication.

“Significantly this by-election – which is the first since the referendum - mirrors the very positive polling on party ratings since the referendum.”

He added: “The victory here in Oban North and Lorn reflects a wider surge in support for the SNP as more and more people have come to realise that the SNP is the only major party that will represent all the people of Scotland, hold the Westminster government to account, by ensuring that Scotland is given the extensive new powers we were promised two days before the referendum.”

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