Stephen Flynn 'must learn his lesson' after SNP MP rules out double jobbing following backlash
by Chris McCall, https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/authors/chris-mccall/ · Daily RecordGet the latest Daily Record breaking news on WhatsApp
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Stephen Flynn must "learn his lesson" after he ditched plans to double-job in Edinburgh and London following a backlash. The SNP leader at Westminster angered some in his party after he announced his intention to become an MSP in 2026 without quitting his Commons seat.
Flynn has now ruled out double jobbing after admitting he had "got this one wrong". But an SNP veteran insisted the MP would be a "good addition" to the party's ranks at the Scottish Parliament.
Alex Neil, a former Scottish Government minister, said it was understandable a politician of Flynn's age and ambition would want to focus on Holyrood "as that's where the future lies for the SNP".
"As he said himself, he made a mistake. I wouldn't hold that against him," Neil told the Record. "But I hope he learns his lesson - you really have to think these things through before you commit yourself. No matter how big an asset you are to the party - which he is, clearly - if people get the feeling your head has got too big, they'll turn on you.
"I think he would be a good addition to the Holyrood group. I would understand if he wanted to continue to pursue a seat at Holyrood, as that's where the future lies for the SNP.
"Although we have to maintain some kind of presence at Westminster, you can understand someone of his age and ability wanting to focus on Holyrood. I think he's overturned the decision quick enough for there to be no lasting damage."
It is understood that Flynn will now decide whether to pursue a challenge for the Aberdeen South & North Kincardine seat at Holyrood, depending on the rules imposed by the SNP's ruling national executive committee.
In a statement, Flynn said on Thursday: "Hands up, I've got this one wrong and won't be pursuing a dual mandate. My aim to save the public purse from unnecessary strain by potentially overlapping the role of an MP and an MSP for a short period until the next general election was genuine in its intent but doing it for the right reasons doesn't change the fact that I got it wrong.
"My motivation and central belief remains that Holyrood, as the heart of Scottish democracy, is the democratic platform that will drive the route to an independent Scotland. All of us in the independence movement share that common cause and want to be part of that story. Alongside all SNP members, I now look forward to assessing the new candidate selection rules that my party will put in place."
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