Senior Labour figures explore Unionist alliance to curb SNP gains

According to sources, senior Labour politicians are contemplating a tactical alliance with fellow Unionist parties aimed at limiting the Scottish National Party's electoral success. The plan would see Labour standing down candidates in selected seats to give Liberal Democrats, Conservatives or other Unionist contenders a clearer path, especially in regions where Labour traditionally performs well, like the Central Belt.

The Highlands and North East, where the Lib Dems and Tories respectively have strength, would benefit from such coordination. The concept echoes earlier Unionist collaborations, notably George Galloway's All for Unity effort in the 2021 Holyrood election and a Conservative-Labour overture ahead of the 2024 General Election, both of which failed to materialise. The SNP has been approached for a response to the proposal.