SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn has confirmed he will stand in the Scottish Parliament election in 2026 in a decision that has fuelled speculation over a future leadership bid. The Aberdeen South MP confirmed he had submitted his name for potential election to Holyrood in two years’ time ahead of Monday’s official deadline. Mr Flynn told the Press & Journal : “It’s never an easy decision to put yourself forward for election.
You have to discuss things with friends and family. “I took some time to properly think things over because there was a high degree of interest in what I was going to do or not do next. “I came to the conclusion I don’t want to sit it out.
I don’t want to sit out those battles that are coming for Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire and the wider nation.” Asked if he would seek to lead the SNP in the future, Mr Flynn did not rule out the prospect. However, he backed John Swinney as remaining First Minister well beyond 2024.
“I don’t think the SNP is going to have a leadership contest for very many years,” Mr Flynn said. “I’m fully confident in the manner in which John Swinney is rebuilding the party and refocusing government. I appreciate the desire that many people have to speculate in and around what my ambitions are or aren’t.
“Of course I want to do everything I possibly can to help my party and help my country and that will never change.” Mr Flynn confirmed he intended to remain an MP until the next general election, despite.