The Scottish National Party’s Historic Victory in 2007

On May 3, 2007, the Scottish National Party (SNP) achieved a landmark victory in the Scottish Parliament elections, marking a significant shift in the political landscape of Scotland. This event was pivotal as it was the first time the SNP became the largest party in the Scottish Parliament, setting the stage for Alex Salmond to become the First Minister of Scotland.

Context Leading Up to the Election

The SNP’s rise to prominence in 2007 was the result of several factors:

1. Devolution and the Scottish Parliament: The establishment of the Scottish Parliament in 1999, following the devolution referendum of 1997, provided a platform for Scottish political parties to address local issues more directly. The SNP, advocating for Scottish independence, capitalized on this new political arena.

2. Labour Party’s Dominance: Prior to 2007, the Labour Party had been the dominant force in Scottish politics, forming the government in the first two sessions of the Scottish Parliament. However, dissatisfaction with Labour’s policies and leadership, both at the UK and Scottish levels, created an opportunity for change.

3. SNP’s Campaign: The SNP ran a campaign focused on the promise of a referendum on Scottish independence, appealing to nationalistic sentiments and the desire for greater autonomy. Their platform also included policies on education, healthcare, and economic development, resonating with a broad spectrum of voters.

The Election Results

The 2007 election results were a turning point:

• SNP’s Performance: The SNP won 47 seats, a gain of 20 seats from the previous election, making them the largest party in the Scottish Parliament.
• Labour’s Decline: The Labour Party won 46 seats, losing 4 seats from their previous count, which marked a significant decline in their influence.
• Other Parties: The Scottish Conservatives and Liberal Democrats also saw changes in their seat counts, but the focus was primarily on the SNP’s unprecedented success.

Aftermath and Significance

• Alex Salmond as First Minister: Following the election, Alex Salmond was appointed as the First Minister of Scotland on May 16, 2007. His leadership marked a new era in Scottish politics, with a focus on pursuing a referendum for Scottish independence.

• Impact on Scottish Politics: The SNP’s victory in 2007 set the stage for future political developments in Scotland, including the 2014 independence referendum. It also highlighted the growing support for Scottish nationalism and the desire for increased self-governance.

• Broader Implications: The SNP’s rise challenged the traditional dominance of the Labour Party in Scotland and influenced political discourse across the United Kingdom, contributing to ongoing debates about devolution and the constitutional future of the UK.

In summary, the 2007 Scottish Parliament election was a transformative moment in Scottish history, marking the SNP’s emergence as a major political force and setting the course for future discussions on Scotland’s autonomy and identity.