Scotland's First Minister has issued a stark warning that the future of the Scottish Parliament is under direct threat if Nigel Farage ever becomes Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.
Swinney's Stark Warning on Devolution
John Swinney accused the Reform UK leader of holding Holyrood "in total contempt" and of being a long-standing opponent of devolution. The SNP leader made the remarks during an interview with the Press Association in Cumbernauld on Monday 19 January 2026.
Swinney argued that Farage's decision to contest the upcoming Scottish Parliament elections in May is a deliberate attempt to undermine the institution itself. "His contesting of the elections is just about trying to undermine the institution," Swinney stated.
The First Minister's central claim was unequivocal: "if Nigel Farage becomes the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, I think the Scottish Parliament's days are numbered." He framed the looming Scottish election as a defensive battle, urging people to vote for independence to "secure the self-government of Scotland."
Farage's Record and Reform's Scottish Push
Swinney's warnings are rooted in Farage's historical positions. When leading UKIP in 2014, Farage called for a "new constitutional settlement" for the UK, arguing England lacked a fair voice. He also advocated for scrapping the Barnett Formula, which determines Scottish funding from Westminster.
Reform UK is mounting a significant challenge in Scotland. Recent polls suggest the party could finish second or third in May's Holyrood elections. The party's polling is reportedly even stronger in England, raising the spectre of a potential UK-wide electoral breakthrough.
To bolster its campaign, Reform UK has appointed former Tory minister Lord Malcolm Offord as its first Scottish leader and has reportedly been equipped with a £1 million war chest for the election fight.
Financial Battleground and Party Positions
The political landscape is also being shaped by financial manoeuvres. Billionaire brothers Sandy and James Easdale have made a six-figure donation to Scottish Labour, providing a significant boost to Anas Sarwar's party.
Meanwhile, the SNP has faced well-documented financial strain in recent years, suffering from a declining membership and fewer MPs. Swinney, whose party remains under police investigation over its finances, insisted the SNP is in a "strong financial position" and confident of fighting a well-funded campaign.
When approached for comment on Swinney's allegations, Reform UK did not immediately respond.
