Scottish Greens to contest record 32 seats at General Election

The Greens say they want their voice to be heard across Scotland in this general election. The highest number of Westminster candidates was 31 in 2015.

They’re already planning to beat that with 32 and that number could rise as it’s up to local branches to make the decision – and some still have to make selections.

Yes, this general election is hugely significant for the country – but the Greens really have their sights set on another electoral test. That’s the 2026 Scottish Parliament election.

Party insiders believe there’s an opportunity for a “massive breakthrough” and it’s really important for them to set their stall out now.

They want to be engaging with voters at this year’s election and setting out what they think the party’s achieving in government.

The Green Party machine can use that voter data, candidates can get a good run out in the constituencies, they can get access to hustings, TV debates, freepost leaflets and party election broadcasts.

Ultimately, they want to be regarded as serious challengers and you need to keep plugging away at the election cycle to prosper.

SNP parliamentarians and members are concerned about the Greens though.

There’s some disquiet in the SNP about what is seen as a too powerful junior partner in government and ultimately the possibility of the pro-independence vote being split in tight seats.

Green Party members I spoke to dismiss that – and say they’re pro-independence anyway and want to give people a true choice.