SNP 89th National Conference 2023 by HinksBrandwise

89th Annual National Conference Aberdeen 15 -17 October 2023

Right now, good things are happening at Mackie’s Mackie’s solar panels and wind turbines, that we helped finance, generate twice as much energy as they use.

10 : 3 4

M A C K I E ’ S O F S C O T L A N D, W E STE RTOWN FAR M

By the side of business

COVER The First Minister Humza Yousaf on the campaign trail for Scotland’s independence.

Welcome

Agenda

Exhibitors

Fringe Programme

Internal Elections

101

Nominations

113

Biographies

121

Reports

125

Standing Orders

133

Floor Maps

137

Essential Information

Contents Key for Fringe Programme Refreshments provided

Food provided

Alcohol available

DISCLAIMER: The Scottish National Party has provided assistance in arranging exhibitions and fringe meetings by various organisations at Conference. This assistance does not necessarily imply any support of that organisation. Fringe listings and selection of speakers are wholly a matter for the sponsors and organisers of fringe meetings, and as such the content of the listings and the meetings may not reflect the views of the SNP. Likewise, the SNP does not endorse the products advertised in this guide or recommend any of the services advertised.

Promoted by SNP 3 Jackson’s Entry, Edinburgh EH8 8PJ. Printed by Saltire 60 Brook Street G40 2AB

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PLANS FOR SCOTLAND’S

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Welcome

Humza Yousaf Leader

Welcome to the 89th SNP’s Annual National Conference! This is my first Conference as Party Leader, and I’m delighted to be joining delegates from across the country here in Aberdeen. As a son of the SNP, it is my immense privilege to lead the party I call home and a responsibility that I do not take lightly. During our party’s leadership election earlier this year, I promised that I wouldn’t just be your First Minister - I would be your First Activist. In those first few months, I have reached nearly every corner of Scotland on the Summer of Independence tour - visiting our island communities, Highland and Border towns and our bustling cities. People are sick and tired of the UK Government’s inaction on the Westminster cost of living crisis, as their bills soar. They are sick of an entitled Tory government that is out of touch with their priorities. And they are sick of Sir Keir Starmer’s pro-Brexit Labour Party and their abject failure to provide an alternative to Tory austerity. From those conversations over the summer, one thing is crystal clear - when the SNP is strong, then Scotland is strong, that is why we continue to be trusted by the people of Scotland. After 16 years in government, that is almost unheard of - but it is because of hard-working activists across the country, who are taking our positive vision of an independent Scotland to voters on the doorsteps, week in week out - rain or shine. Our message today is stronger than ever. Scotland has been held back by Westminster control and needs independence to unleash our full potential. People are looking for hope, Westminster rule is not as good as it gets, and it is our duty to ensure we give people that hope, and articulate that independence is the real alternative to the failed Westminster economic model.

The ‘game-changing’ Scottish Child Payment is estimated to lift 90,000 of Scotland’s children out of poverty. SNP Government investment has delivered nearly 100,000 affordable homes - and we will deliver another 100,000 by 2032. And households in Scotland get the best deal in the UK with free prescriptions, eye tests, dental care, college and university tuition, a baby box for expecting families and free personal care. Our commitment to open our hearts and our communities to those fleeing war and persecution has seen Scotland punch well above its weight in welcoming refugees from Syria and Ukraine. It’s Westminster control that is the ultimate barrier to Scotland fulfilling its full potential. Countries similar to Scotland are fairer, wealthier and happier than the UK, and crucially they are independent . As we face a General Election in the coming months, Scotland will face a choice - to stick with broken Westminster control or to embrace the full powers of independence. The future that Westminster offers could not be further removed from the priorities of the people of Scotland. From a hard Brexit that Scotland overwhelmingly rejected to an economy-wrecking mini-Budget by Liz Truss and a heartless ideological drive to turn away those fleeing war, Westminster is not the answer. The answer is simple. Decisions about Scotland should be made right here. We can build a fairer, wealthier, happier, greener, more equal nation - but only with the full powers that independence brings. As we gather in Aberdeen this year, let us do so with renewed vigour - to get out and build that support for independence to a level that Westminster simply cannot ignore. Let us take that message of equality, opportunity and community to the people - to strengthen our numbers and win that independent future that our nation, and her people, so desperately need.

The values of equality, opportunity and community are what drive me every day and what has driven our party for decades. These values drive our SNP Government to deliver for the people of Scotland against a backdrop of chaos from a Tory government in Westminster that has gone off the rails.

The Scottish case for SAF A home-grown Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) industry will deliver economic benefits across the country. There is a potential in the UK for 14 SAF plants across seven locations, including two major sites in Scotland. St Fergus is a crucial site for low carbon energy and Grangemouth is the home of the UK’s only refinery with a hydrocracker. The SAF industry in Scotland could contribute up to £332m GVA and up to 2300 green job opportunities in research, development, engineering, and manufacturing.

UK Potential £

+ £929 million GVA annually + 6,500 jobs 3.6 million tonnes of CO2 saved annually

Heathrow is leading the way by becoming the first airport in the world to launch a SAF incentive programme through its landing charges. We are committed to 11% SAF usage at the airport by 2030.

St Fergus £ £46-£133M +320-920

To achieve this, we need the Westminster Government to support this home-grown green industry and invest at pace in a price stability mechanism to secure domestic supply.

Grangemouth £ £107-£199M +740-1,390

By acting now, the UK can be a global SAF leader. Phase 1 feedstocks for SAF Waste that cannot be recycled (commercial and domestic) Forestry residues Agricultural residues Carbon waste gases

heathrow.com/company @heathrownews

Existing production infrastructure Site refinery

Phase 2 feedstocks for SAF Carbon capture cluster Potential green H2 cluster Renewable offshore wind

Agenda

Sunday 15 October Session 1 10h30 Welcome Address by Stephen Flynn MP, Westminster SNP Group Leader 10h45 Report of the Conferences Committee 10h50 Resolutions 12h15 Close

01 BRING ENERGY RESOURCES INTO PUBLIC CONTROL Conference recognises that the last winter crisis was caused by Westminster’s refusal to provide appropriate support - and reckless economics - in the escalating and unaffordable increase in energy prices. The SNP recognises that this crisis is one that can be prevented but that the current Westminster Government’s intervention is woefully inadequate. This crisis is a humanitarian disaster and a public health tragedy, and conference is grateful to the Scottish Government for its humane approach to these events. Conference calls on the SNP to plan for an independent Scotland to bring our energy resources into public control, and to commit to building the infrastructure for this as soon as practically possible. Conference also considers that Energy should be considered a human right and asserts that in an Independent Scotland it will be, and urges the Scottish Government to consult on what energy as a human right would mean in practice in terms of ensuring the right to an energy supply for all. Conference recognises that having more control over our energy resources will allow us to build wellbeing and human rights into fuel provision, ensuring those in poverty never again bear the brunt of any future energy crisis. Moreso, conference also recognises that public ownership will allow better planning for our urgent transition to renewable energy; building democratic decisions into the just transition. CHRIS LAW MP, CLLR SIOBHAN TOLLAND, DUNDEE CITY WEST CONSTITUENCY BRANCH AMENDMENT Paragraph three, line two. After “into public control” add “through a mix of local public ownership and nationalisation.” SNP TRADE UNION GROUP

02 A HUMANE AND JUST ASYLUM SYSTEM Conference believes that Scotland must strive to be a welcoming and inclusive country, and we should value everyone, no matter their birthplace, who has chosen to make Scotland their home and to live, work, study, raise their families, and build their lives. Conference, considers the UK Government’s Illegal Migration Act to be dehumanising, immoral and in breach of UK’s obligations under the 1951 Refugee Convention, the European Convention on Human Rights, the European Convention on Action Against Trafficking, and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child; and rejects the deeply damaging hostile environment policy pursued by successive Conservative Governments in Westminster. Conference condemns the UK Government’s appalling dismantling of the asylum system, including in particular the contracting of the Bibby Stockholm barge as part of a policy of deterrence; and the ongoing attempts to remove asylum seekers to Rwanda in breach of international law. Conference acknowledges the vital work of immigration lawyers in ensuring access to justice for asylum seekers, refugees and other migrants and deplores recent attacks on them by UK ministers. In contrast Conference welcome’s Scotland’s ‘New Scots’ approach to support refugees and asylum seekers to integrate into our communities from day one of arrival; and notes the Scottish Government’s proposals for an inclusive model of citizenship in an independent Scotland, including an independent Migrants’ Commissioner who would stand up for the rights of people who have decided to call Scotland their home. Further notes that the UK Government rejected the Windrush review’s recommendation to establish this role. Conference concludes this is demonstration of why we need the full powers of independence in Scotland; to chart our own path and build a compassionate and humanitarian system which reflects our values and reaffirms Scotland’s strong commitment to welcoming refugees and asylum seekers seeking sanctuary. STUART MCDONALD MP – NATIONAL TREASURER, ALISON THEWLISS MP, CUMBERNAULD BRANCH

Agenda

Sunday 15 October 03 INCLUSIVE CITIZENSHIP ON SCOTLAND’S INDEPENDENCE DAY Conference notes with pride the historic journey towards Scotland’s independence, driven by the unwavering commitment to the values of inclusivity, diversity, and social justice. As we approach the realisation of this long-cherished dream, it is crucial for the Scottish National Party to demonstrate its dedication to building an inclusive nation that recognises the contributions and humanity of all those living within our borders. Conference recognises that the people of Scotland come from diverse backgrounds, with various origins and current nationalities. Conference firmly believes that on the day Scotland achieves independence, everyone residing in Scotland should be recognised as a Scottish citizen, regardless of their country of origin or current nationality. Conference acknowledges that those who have made Scotland their home, irrespective of their roots, have enriched our society and have played an integral role in shaping our collective identity. Granting the right to Scottish citizenship to all residents on the day of independence not only upholds our commitment to equality but also symbolises our openness to embracing diversity and fostering a cohesive society. Conference regrets the Scottish Government’s commitment to giving automatic rights to Scottish citizenship on the day of independence to British citizens only. Conference, therefore, calls on the Scottish Government to change its policy and commit to automatically conferring the right to Scottish citizenship to all individuals residing in Scotland on the day Scotland becomes independent, regardless of their origin or current nationality. Conference believes that this inclusive approach to citizenship is fundamental to building a Scotland that is welcoming, diverse, and united in its pursuit of a brighter future. CLLR JÉRÉMIE FERNANDES, ELGIN BRANCH

04 SUPPORTING CARE EXPERIENCED YOUNG PEOPLE AND YOUNG CARERS The SNP is fully committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for every single one of our Children & Young People. Our councillors and parliamentarians recognise that we have a special responsibility for those who rely on direct support from Local Authorities, including Care Experienced Young People and Young Carers. Conference recognises that the Scottish Government’s enhanced bursary for Care Experienced Young People now enables many young people to continue their education into college or university and achieve the best possible start to their adult lives. Conference further recognises that Young Carers often experience difficulties accessing further education as their caring responsibilities may significantly impact on their ability to access student employment to support their studies. Conference calls upon the Scottish Government to consider extending the enhanced bursary or equivalent to Young Carers with significant caring responsibilities; to ensure they benefit from equal access to further education and are recognised for, and not disadvantaged by, their significant contribution in providing care and support to their loved ones. Conference also recognises that Care Experience is currently not considered as a Protected Characteristic under Equality Act 2010, notes notes that a number of Councils across Scotland have voted to recognise Care Experience as a protected characteristic in Council’s impact assessments, and resolves to make Care Experience as an additional protected characteristic across all Scotland Public Bodies. CLLR JULIE DETTBARN, KYLE BRANCH, PHILIPPA WHITFORD MP, ALLAN DORANS MP, CLLR SIMITA KUMAR, NEWINGTON SOUTHSIDE BRANCH, GILMERTON BRANCH, BAME MEMBERS NETWORK

Agenda

Sunday 15 October Session 2 14h00 Topical and Emergency Resolutions 14h20 Resolutions - Independence Strategy 16h00 Address by Shona Robison MSP, Deputy First Minister 16h15 Close

05 INDEPENDENCE STRATEGY 1 Conference believes that the next UK General Election should be used as an opportunity to advance the cause of independence, and to demonstrate how the powers of independence would enable us to take action on Scotland’s priorities – from tackling the Westminster-made cost of living crisis, to protecting our public services, eradicating poverty and building a fairer economy that works for us all. 2 Conference believes that Scotland is facing a ‘Cost of Westminster Crisis’; one that is making life increasingly challenging for people across the country and makes the case for independence even more urgent. 3 Conference notes that the UK Government continues to unjustly block a democratic referendum, thereby denying the people of Scotland the opportunity to express their support for independence. 4 Conference therefore supports using the next UK General Election as a means to offer that opportunity, and secure Scotland’s independence; and further notes that this approach has been debated at Regional Assemblies across Scotland, with widespread support as a means to move Scotland forward to achieving independence. Conference agrees that the SNP manifesto for the UK General Election should state on page one, line one, the following simple and powerful statement: Vote SNP for Scotland to become an independent country. 5 Conference further agrees that the SNP manifesto and campaign should highlight the direct link between Westminster rule and the many challenges we are facing as a country, and demonstrate the opportunities of independence across the board on the issues that matter most to the people of Scotland. 6 Conference believes that if the SNP subsequently wins the most seats at the General Election in Scotland, the Scottish Government is empowered to begin immediate negotiations with the UK Government to give democratic effect to Scotland becoming an independent country; and to take the following actions as part of preparations for Scotland’s independence:

6a Publish ‘Withdrawal from Westminster – a New Partnership Agreement’, which would set out the detailed terms we would seek in discussions with the UK Government for Scotland becoming an independent country and include draft legal text on the transfer of powers from Westminster to the Scottish Parliament necessary to prepare for independence. 6b Conduct a nationwide consultation on a draft interim constitution, which would be the founding document of an independent Scotland. 6c Prepare the ground for Scotland to rejoin the international community and become an independent member state of the EU, by establishing envoy positions to act as representatives of the Scottish Government in supra-national forums. HUMZA YOUSAF MSP, STEPHEN FLYNN MP

AMENDMENT A – TRANSFER OF POWERS Insert at end of resolution: Conference further agrees that the SNP manifesto for the next Westminster election will demand the permanent transfer of legal power to the Scottish Parliament to determine how Scotland is governed, including the transfer of power to enable it to legislate for a referendum. Conference agrees that the SNP manifesto will demand that the incoming UK Government will legislate to devolve a series of powers to allow the Scottish Government to properly tackle the twin crises of the cost of living and climate – including but not limited to: • employment rights and the living/minimum wage • windfall taxation for companies operating in Scotland • regulation, pricing and production of energy sources • employment visas for overseas workers • new borrowing powers to invest in a just transition

Agenda

Sunday 15 October Conference further agrees that should an incoming UK Government continue to refuse the demands of the Scottish people to decide their own future, consideration should be given to fighting the next Scottish Parliament election in 2026 as a de facto referendum on independence; and that a majority at that election for the SNP - or the SNP and any other party with which we have reached a pro-independence agreement - will be considered a mandate to negotiate independence. TOMMY SHEPPARD MP, STEWART M MCDONALD MP, RICHARD THOMSON MP, ALYN SMITH MP, ANNE MCLAUGHLIN MP, PHILIPPA WHITFORD MP, DAVE DOOGAN MP, LONDON BRANCH, PORTOBELLO-CRAIGMILLAR BRANCH, CLACKMANNANSHIRE BRANCH, EDINBURGH CENTRAL BRANCH, LEITH BRANCH, CRAIGENTINNY AND DUDDINGSTON BRANCH, MUSSELBURGH AND DISTRICT BRANCH, SNP TRADE UNION GROUP

AMENDMENT B – RENEWED INDEPENDENCE CAMPAIGN Add at end: Conference agrees that by the end of the year the SNP will launch a Scotland-wide independence campaign, which will include digital and print campaign assets, aimed at increasing support for independence. The SNP will work in partnership with Yes groups and organisations and will promote pro-independence voices from all sectors of Scottish society. TONI GIUGLIANO - POLICY DEVELOPMENT CONVENER, PETERHEAD BRANCH, BRAES BRANCH, FALKIRK SOUTH BRANCH, HELENSBURGH BRANCH, EDINBURGH WESTERN CONSTITUENCY BRANCH

AMENDMENT C – BALLOT PAPER DESCRIPTION Add at end: Conference further agrees that the SNP will seek to add the words “Independence for Scotland” or words to that effect, to the party’s name and logo on the General Election ballot papers to make it clear beyond doubt what’s at stake at this election. TONI GIUGLIANO - POLICY DEVELOPMENT CONVENER, PETERHEAD BRANCH, BRAES BRANCH, FALKIRK SOUTH BRANCH, HELENSBURGH BRANCH, EDINBURGH WESTERN CONSTITUENCY BRANCH

AMENDMENT D – CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTION Paragraph 6 - Delete all after “General Election in Scotland” in line 1, and replace with: “…this constitutes a mandate for independence negotiations with the UK Government which should be taken forward by a Constitutional Convention constituted by the MPs elected to Westminster, MSPs and representatives of civic Scotland. Conference reaffirms the commitment to set up a Constitutional Convention made in January 2020.” JOANNA CHERRY MP, SNP TRADE UNION GROUP

AMENDMENT E – MAJORITY OF SEATS FOR SNP REQUIRED Paragraph 6, line 1 - delete “the most”, insert “ a majority of the”. Revised statement to read “Conference believes that if the SNP subsequently wins a majority of the seats at the General Election in Scotland” DEESIDE AND UPPER DONSIDE BRANCH

AMENDMENT F – MAJORITY OF VOTES FOR PRO-INDEPENDENCE PARTIES Paragraph 6, line 1 – delete “Conference believes that if the SNP subsequently wins the most seats at the General Election in Scotland” and replace with: “Conference believes that if the SNP together with other pro-independence parties win a majority of votes cast at the General Election in Scotland” JOANNA CHERRY MP, SNP TRADE UNION GROUP

AMENDMENT G – MAJORITY OF VOTES FOR SNP REQUIRED Paragraph 6, line one- delete “most seats” and replace with “majority of the vote”. PETE WISHART MP; ALMOND AND EARN BRANCH

Agenda

Sunday 13 15 October Session 3 - INTERNAL 16h15 Reports of National Office Bearers Governance and Transparency Review – Report and Q&A

Agenda

Monday 16 October Session 4 10h30 Panel Session - Our Priorities for Scotland 11h00 Resolutions 11h55 Plaid Cymru Fraternal Address – Rhun ap Iorwerth, Leader 12h10 President’s Prize 12h15 Close

06 FISHING, MARINE PROTECTION AND COMMUNITY-BASED CONSERVATION Conference notes the principles of community-based conservation that aim to integrate development with conservation to the benefit of people and nature, fostering stewardship of local biodiversity and ensuring equitable distribution of costs and benefits from conservation; further notes concerns that a lack of community involvement can jeopardise government efforts to address the biodiversity crisis and recognises that for a meaningful restoration of the country’s marine environment, active community and sectoral support for protection measures are vital. Conference recognises that our fishing and coastal communities have expertise and local knowledge that is necessary to enhance our marine biodiversity and ensure livelihoods for future generations of fishermen and women; recognises that local communities have often been at the forefront of efforts to protect the environment and that in other jurisdictions their knowledge is formally recognised as Fishermens Ecological Knowledge (FEK). Conference urges the Scottish Government to empower local decision-making learning from the successes of the Shetland model of management; to work with all key stakeholders, including local industry and businesses impacted by the proposals, and to ensure democratic and transparent mechanisms exist to inform decision-making and enhance community credibility. Conference agrees that any revised framework for marine protection should be communitycentred, directly informed by the Ecological Knowledge of those working in the marine environment and fully island-proofed. Conference further agrees that any framework should recognise those areas of the seabed already set aside for other purposes including anchorages, channels, traffic separation schemes, wind farms and military exercises and calls on the Scottish Government to fully explore devolving decision-making to a local level. Conference concludes that prioritising those voices working sustainably in our marine communities will help ensure that we arrive at a position where the marine environment and our coastal communities can thrive, which will be in Scotland’s best economic, cultural and environmental interests. GLASGOW SHETTLESTON CONSTITUENCY BRANCH, PETERHEAD BRANCH

Agenda

Monday 16 October 07 WIND TURBINE PLANNING POLICY Conference notes that in Scotland building-mounted wind turbines require planning permission where standalone turbines do not, providing they meet the following criteria: it is the only wind turbine within the property and is situated more than 100m from the nextdoor neighbour. This, of course precludes many urban households from benefitting from ample wind (exterior) to cut down their now enormous energy bills. The cost of wind turbines is falling in real terms every year. The technology involved in their design and efficiency improves every year. It is now possible to have a 2kw vertical turbine (shaped like a barrel and not much bigger than a satellite dish) capable of generating significant output at very low wind speeds which, over the course of a year (assuming only 50% power 50% of the time) will generate 4380Kwh or £1314 at current market prices. The turbines have a life of c.20 years and a payback time of 1-2 years depending on where they are sited. The aspiration is to make this type of renewable resource more available to everyone and this will have a huge impact on fuel poverty in our towns and cities. Looking forward, it would be possible to mount wind turbines on lamp posts and these could be used to provide EV charge points on the same lamp posts (probably every 4th lamp post in a street). Interestingly, using the same efficiency calculation, for just 50% efficiency 50% of the time means 142,350,000Kwh per year or £42.7 million at current market rates. Into rural Scotland where single phase and three phase low tension power supplies are carried on wooden poles the same benefits would apply. The turbines would feed straight ito the network with no need for interconnectors. There are estimated to be over 500,000 utility poles in Scotland. To change the planning rules around wind turbines mounted on property in Scotland. This should now be permitted under acceptable development but would apply to a list of generators with low noise figures (similar to that of a fridge) and maximum dimensions. It would also be beneficial if the turbines were only of the vertical axis nature as horizontal axis turbines with propeller type fins can cause flickering with has been shown to affect people prone to photo-epilepsy. Conference resolves to ask the Scottish Government to investigate the viability of amending the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (Scotland) Order 1992 to allow domestic vertical axis wind turbines to be erected under permitted acceptable development. With a view to implementing this during the current Scottish Parliamentary term, subject to appropriate consultation with relevant stakeholders. FALKIRK SOUTH BRANCH

08 RURAL NEW ENTRANT’S FUND Conference regrets the lack of opportunity afforded to young people to access housing. Barriers to access make home ownership difficult exasperating rural population decline. A steady and constant decline in the general and the working age population has accelerated over the last decade. A progressively aging population puts pressure on social care and the NHS and there is a need to encourage new families to these areas and for young people to remain. Conference believes that new entrants can sustain and reinvigorate rural areas and it is vital to sustain these communities. In addition research on land use indicates that new entrants and their successors are more likely to bring added prosperity to an area. Conference proposes that a “Rural New Entrant’s Fund” be established to support young people to access land, or affordable finance for the purchase of land or buildings addressing land supply and cost issues. Where social housing or self-build homes are proposed a permanent residence restrictions on use and re-sale would apply. This would include a right to preemption to guarantee that homes remained available for Social Housing where deemed necessary. Land owners in the Public Sector will have a duty to identifying any non-operating land assets in their possession with land made available to new entrants at current use value. INVERNESS CITY BRANCH, WESTER ROSS BRANCH

Agenda

Monday 16 October Session 5 14h00 Address by Keith Brown MSP, Depute Leader 14h15 Resolutions 15h10 Topical and Emergency Resolutions 15h30 Close

09 WASTEWATER MONITORING Conference believes in the life supporting importance of wastewater treatment works capacity, and reliable environmental monitoring while there are constraints on the government’s budget at any time. Conference understands that in 2022, sewage overflowed directly into Scotland’s rivers and other water courses more than 14,000 times last year, the highest figure since records began. Climate change causes increasing risk of storms, together with anticipated growth of rural communities, mean demand for wastewater treatment services from Scottish Water, and environmental monitoring services from SEPA is exceeding supply. Conference recommends for the Scottish Government to increase waste water monitoring by making more data available to SEPA. This can only be achieved by prioritising and increasing the capacity of services of both organisations, which requires investment. DEESIDE AND UPPER DONSIDE BRANCH

10 RURAL AND ISLAND CONNECTIVITY Conference notes with concern the challenges facing rural and island communities transport connectivity and that these communities have also seen sharply increased costs during the cost-of-living crisis. Conference further notes that the social, economic and geographical challenges facing these communities are also present in many of the countries around Scotland. Conference welcomes the proposed delivery of an Islands Connectivity Plan which will help improve transport links to island communities. Conference believes that the delivery of this plan must be done in consultation and with the leadership of the local communities which are most affected by it. Furthermore, Conference welcomes the commitment of the Scottish Government to support the next Scottish Rural Parliament, due to take place on the 1st - 3rd November, and urges it to constructively listen to and engage with its discussions. Conference additionally resolves to support the following measures to improve rural and islands transport connectivity: For the Scottish Government to publish a series of short-term (0-6 months), medium-term (6 months - 5 years) and long-term (5 - 20 years) objectives to improve rural and island transport connections. To support the creation of a dedicated Scottish Parliament Committee to oversee this progress and provide regular democratic scrutiny. To consult with local authorities and devolve further powers to enable them to oversee the development of existing and new transport routes. To propose a regional forum with neighbouring countries such as Ireland, Wales, the Faroe Islands and Norway to share ideas and best practices for improving connectivity in the islands and rural areas. LONDON BRANCH AMENDMENT Insert at close of penultimate paragraph ‘including tunnels.’ NA H-EILEANAN AN IAR CONSTITUENCY BRANCH

Agenda

Monday 16 October 11 PROTECT OUR NHS AND PUBLIC SERVICES Conference notes that in December 2022 the UK Department of Health and Social Care established the Elective Recovery Taskforce to advise the UK Government on how to tackle NHS backlogs. On 04 August 2023, this group announced their implementation plan which unsurprisingly calls for increased use of the private sector. While these plans relate to NHS England only, such changes will inevitably lead to changes in our own funding settlement. Conference recognises that privatisation of the NHS is an ideological mission for this UK Government and a necessary concession for any post-Brexit free trade agreement with the United States including removal of non-tariff barriers (i.e. safety and environmental regulations) and to “reduce or eliminate barriers to U.S. investment in all sectors in the UK” 2 Without the powers of independence the Scottish Government’s tools to fight this are limited. The contempt shown by the UK Government means we do not even have a voice in the negotiations. This weakness in the current powers of the Scottish Government goes beyond our health system. Any of our natural resources or critical infrastructure assets could all be sold from under us, regardless of how much these might be opposed by our Parliament or our citizens. We can however make any potential buyers know that we will not stand for this. Conference therefore proposes that the Scottish Government introduces legislation making clear that any agreement entered into by the UK government to sell, lease, licence or alter in any other way the ownership or operation of such public assets, without the agreement of the Scottish Parliament, will not be honoured once we achieve our independence. Furthermore, such assets will be taken back into public ownership immediately and without compensation or recompense. We will not allow our public services, natural resources or critical infrastructure to be sold off without our permission. Potential investors should also know that investment in any Scottish asset acquired without the permission of Scotland’s Parliament is extremely high risk and will ultimately be worthless. DEESIDE AND UPPER DONSIDE BRANCH

Session 6 – INTERNAL SESSION 15h30 Internal Resolutions 16h30 Close

12 AMENDMENT TO CONSTITUTION - BRANCH DIVIDEND Replace existing paragraph 40.2 of the Constitution with the following: “Branches are credited with a share of membership subscriptions agreed by National Conference or National Council.” STUART MCDONALD MP – NATIONAL TREASURER, LORNA FINN – NATIONAL SECRETARY

AMENDMENT Add after branches, “and affiliated organisations” SNP TRADE UNION GROUP

13 AMENDMENT TO CONSTITUTION - RENAMING THE ANC Within the Constitution, Rules and Standing Orders of the Party - in every case where presently the words ‘Association of Nationalist Councillors’ appear - delete those words and replace them with ‘Association of SNP Councillors’. CLLR HEATHER ANDERSON, CLLR NORMAN MACLEOD

Agenda

Sunday Monday1316October October 14 AMENDMENT TO CODE OF CONDUCT At the end of the Code of Conduct for Members, insert – “16. Members of the Scottish National Party are expected not to knowingly redistribute disinformation on matters of public import in digital, print or media form. Disinformation is defined here as deliberately misleading, biased or altogether false information, knowingly shared to distort and manipulate public debate and/or to discredit democratic institutions and processes. For misleading, biased or false information to be classified as disinformation, the false material disseminated has to be spread with deliberate intent to deceive. Unintentional spread of false information, satire, and subjective opinion are therefore not considered disinformation and are not subject to disciplinary action under this clause. Examples of disinformation include, but are not limited to: •

deep fakes, falsified photos, counterfeit websites,

•

shortened citations that exclude vital context,

•

faulty statistics,

•

conspiracy theories.”

NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

15 ESTABLISHING PERMANENT CANDIDATE ASSESSMENT AND APPEALS COMMITTEES Conference instructs the National Executive Committee to make appropriate arrangements to establish a permanent Candidate Assessment Committee and a permanent Candidate Assessment Appeals Committee. CLLR HEATHER ANDERSON, CLLR NORMAN MACLEOD

16 APPROVED CANDIDATES Conference agrees to re-establish, maintain, regularly review and publish a Rolling Register of Approved Candidates for all levels of party representation and instructs the National Executive Committee to make arrangements accordingly. CLLR HEATHER ANDERSON, CLLR NORMAN MACLEOD

17 AI GUIDANCE FOR OFFICE BEARERS Conference notes that the rapid development of data, tech and AI tools—such as ChatGTP, voice and video mimicking software and beyond—can aid office bearers, elected members and their offices and the Party with various tasks. However, conference acknowledges that, with advanced ability to generate information and content using technology, greater care and oversight must be used when using these tools. Conference understands the risk that over-reliance or inappropriate use of such technologies presents, such as the unintentional creation and dissemination of incorrect information (misinformation); the failure to execute the obligations of elected office in an appropriate way; and the potential to breach Party, data protection and elected office rules. Similarly, conference understands the elevated risk AI technologies poses to the party and elected members by third parties from, for example, the unproved or malicious use of voice, video, written or other content mimicking software. Conference recommends, therefore, that the party develops and creates guidance for office bearers and elected members on the use of AI technology, and examines methods by which information from office bearers, elected members and the party can be signified as authentic and official information or communications. EDINBURGH CENTRAL CONSTITUENCY BRANCH, GILMERTON BRANCH

18 RESOLUTION ARCHIVE Conference welcomes the fact that party policy is driven by the membership in contrast to the mainstream UK parties. Conference believes that party democracy is a vital measure to raise awareness and propose solutions to the issues closest to the people of Scotland, as well as bring us closer to independence.

Agenda

Sunday 1316October Monday October Conference also believes that its resolutions which are accepted must be available for party members to look back upon. Conference welcomes efforts to provide a record decisions since 2018 but notes that in a significant number of cases, details such as the content of resolutions is unavailable or difficult to find. Conference therefore resolves to create an archive of resolutions dating back to 2015 which is accessible to party members on MySNP. Conference calls for this archive to be as fully complete as possible with details such as the name of the resolution, the names of branches and/or individuals proposing the resolution, the names of speakers, the content of the resolution and the result of votes to be included. Conference furthermore calls that this archive be updated with the decisions of each subsequent party conference and National Council within 3 months of the decision being taken. Conference furthermore urges the party to explore ways to build up the archive with the decisions taken pre-2015 as a means to continuously evaluate and reflect upon the evolution of the party. LONDON BRANCH AMENDMENT A Insert at the end of Paragraph 3: ‘Conference further calls for the inclusion of a tracking system to help ensure that resolutions which are passed are implemented.’ NA H-EILEANAN AN IAR CONSTITUENCY BRANCH

AMENDMENT B After paragraph 4 add: “Conference also calls for a robust policy development structure to be developed, through which resolutions held in the archive can be reviewed, amended, and improved over time. Conference believes this will help reduce duplication and ensure good policy is developed and built upon. Conference believes that National Council, National Assembly, National Conference and the Policy Development Committee should have defined roles within this process, establishing a well understood pathway along which policy proposals can be developed, both before and after resolutions are agreed.“ HADDINGTON BRANCH

Agenda

Tuesday 17 October Session 7 10h30 Resolutions 12h15 Close

19 IMPROVED CARE AND SUPPORT FOR DISABLED PEOPLE Conference notes that disabled people have been deprioritised throughout the pandemic, and now through post-pandemic planning, despite dying in the highest numbers; at the same time retention of dedicated care staff who performed so heroically has become a major issue; and the potential removal of ring-fenced funding for social care would further erode disabled people’s life opportunities unless rapid action is taken. Conference calls for a review of the current social care system, by the Scottish Government, with the aim to: - Professionalise the roles of care staff for disabled people including improved pay and pay structures, recruitment, training, and career development; - Review the annual budget allocated to the social care system; - Re-open the Independent Living Fund; - Review eligibility criteria to focus on need, rather than budgetary constraints; - Produce and deliver national standards and accountability to improve the quality and consistency of care delivered locally; - Empower leaders and social work professionals to develop a new culture based on upholding human rights; - Provide flexible care that meets needs and supports disabled people to live full lives. GLASGOW KELVIN CONSTITUENCY BRANCH

Agenda

Tuesday 17 October 20 SUPPORT FOR CARERS Conference welcomes the publication of the Scottish National Carers Strategy by the Scottish Government in December 2022 and the announcement of intended changes to the new Carers Support Payment in March 2023. These changes will include removing restrictions on carers studying full time, and increasing the amount they can earn and still get Carers Support Payment. Conference however acknowledges that further action is required to ensure that carers are provided with dignified levels of financial support, and cites the research commissioned by Carers UK, Heading For Crisis report; that highlights the hardship faced by increasing amounts of unpaid carers, particularly those for whom caring is a full time, long term role. Conference calls on the Scottish Government to: 1. Continue to use Scottish Parliament’s powers to advance the interests of carers and those who are cared for. 2. To support the Carers Poverty Coalition campaign at UK level to both increase carers benefits and reform the welfare system that better supports carers financially. EAST NEUK & LANDWARD BRANCH

21 SAFE ACCESS ZONES FOR ASYLUM SEEKERS IN HOME OFFICE ACCOMMODATION Conference notes with great concern the proliferation of anti-refugee protests around Home Office-provided accommodation for asylum seekers, in Scotland and elsewhere. Conference welcomes the contribution that refugee and migrant communities have made to the fabric of Scottish life and resolves to take urgent steps to keep these communities safe. It applauds the courageous and defiant opposition of civil society to the far-right groups behind these protests. Conference stands by the principle of providing shelter for those in need, including those who seek refuge from elsewhere. Conference reaffirms its commitment to Article 8 ECHR, which includes the right for a person to have peaceful enjoyment of their home. Conference notes with interest the progress through the Scottish Parliament of the Abortion Services (Safe Access Zones) (Scotland) Bill, which recognises that freedom from harassment may need to be guaranteed by way of creating protest-free zones around facilities where people access essential services. Conference recognises the right of individuals and groups to express freely their opinion on any policy issue, but notes that this right is qualified and should not infringe upon the freedoms of others to live peacefully. Conference does not believe that the appropriate place for protest is outside one’s home. As such, Conference urges the Scottish Government to explore the creation of such safe access zones around Home Office-provided accommodation for asylum seekers, in which protest would be limited or prohibited entirely. GOVAN KINGSTON BRANCH

Agenda

Tuesday 17 October 22 WITHDRAWAL FROM THE ENERGY CHARTER TREATY Conference deplores The Energy Charter Treaty (5) (ECT). This is a secret international court system that enables fossil fuel firms to sue governments for lost future profits. It provides for an Investor State Dispute Settlement (ISDS) mechanism to resolve disputes between an investor and a member state. According to the Guardian, ‘Oil, gas and coal firms have been awarded more than $100bn (£82.5bn) by ECT tribunals… critics have estimated the final cost in compensation to fossil fuel companies could rise to more than $1tn. Some renewable energy companies have also used the ECT to sue for compensation after subsidy changes.’ This is on top of the massive, unprecedented profits made by the industry while our people endure the worst fuel poverty and cost of living crisis on record; people the world over experience accelerating and worsening climate chaos. According to bilaterals.org, The ECT ‘places investors’ economic rights and interests over the social, ecological and economic interests of host states and their societies. The ECT imposes obligations on the host state but not on foreign investors. The ECT has also been condemned by environmental activists for protecting the fossil fuel industry and undermining serious climate action.’ Conference agrees the ECT is ‘incompatible with the implementation of the Paris Climate Agreement, just transition policies developed together with workers and their unions, and other necessary public policy measures. The ECT has been – and will increasingly be – used by fossil fuel and nuclear energy companies to challenge government decisions to phase out such energy sources. It can also be an obstacle to prioritising investment in renewable energy and energy efficiency, to bringing energy production under public control, and to taking measures to end energy poverty. The ECT in its current form is outdated and a threat to the public interest. Conference also agrees with the 278 signatories to the open letter sent to the EU, ‘to ensure that the ECT can no longer undermine action to avoid climate breakdown, protect the environment, and make energy affordable for all. We also call on you to immediately halt the geographic expansion of the ECT to even more signatory states.’ Although Energy is a reserved matter, Conference agrees that the SNP and Scottish Government should stand resolutely in opposition to the climate-harming ECT and pressure the Westminster Parliament to withdraw from it as our European neighbours have already done. In addition and in keeping with an earlier commitment Conference calls on The Scottish Government to commit to not accepting ISDS clauses in any future trade deal. WEST FIFE & COASTAL VILLAGES BRANCH, ANGUS NORTH & MEARNS CONSTITUENCY ASSOCIATION

23 TRAUMA & MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES Conference notes the link between poverty, trauma, and poor mental health, with some of society’s most significant problems, namely substance misuse, high suicide rates, economic inactivity, increased criminality, homelessness, social isolation, & low attainment levels, among others. Conference commends the work of the Scottish Government in reducing childhood poverty and now calls for an improvement in Trauma and Mental Health Services. Conference calls for the Scottish Government to examine increasing the funding and staffing levels for mental health services. Additionally, Conference calls for the Scottish Government to begin the process of introducing a primary diagnostic mental health care service working in the community with the aim of a mental health practitioner working in every GP practice to provide early diagnosis, preventative, triaging, prescribing, and precrisis treatment similar to that offered in Switzerland, bringing Scotland more in line with our European neighbours. ANDY STUART – DISABLED MEMBERS CONVENER, GILMERTON BRANCH, PETERHEAD BRANCH, ALMOND VALLEY CONSTITUENCY ASSOCIATION, LIVINGSTON SOUTH BRANCH

24 A9 & A96 DUALLING Conference asserts that the full dualling of the A9 and A96, with the implementation of modern safety standards, such as separated carriageways, improved junctions, enhanced signage, and state of the art Traffic Management systems, will create safer road environments that minimise the likelihood of accidents, reduce injury, and ultimately save lives. Conference reaffirms the SNP’s unwavering commitment to fully dualling the A9 and A96 as a top infrastructure priority for Scotland. Conference further reaffirms the SNP’s determination to allocate the necessary resources and expertise to expedite the planning, development, and construction of these road projects, and the party’s commitment to working collaboratively with local authorities, communities, and other stakeholders to achieve these objectives. ELGIN BRANCH, PETERHEAD BRANCH

Agenda

Tuesday 17 October Session 8 14h00 Resolutions 14h55 Topical and Emergency Resolutions 15h15 Address by Humza Yousaf MSP, Party Leader and First Minister of Scotland 16h00 Close

25 ADDRESSING ENDOMETRIOSIS Conference notes that endometriosis is a chronic and debilitating medical condition affecting approximately 1 in 10 women worldwide causing significant pain and infertility. It often remains undiagnosed or misdiagnosed, leading to unnecessary suffering and delayed treatment for affected individuals. Conference further notes that endometriosis has a significant impact on womens physical and mental wellbeing, often disrupting their education, careers and personal lives. Conference believes that increased awareness and understanding of endometriosis among healthcare professionals, employers and the general public is needed to ensure timely diagnosis and appropriate support, as early detection can significantly improve women’s quality of life and preserve fertility. Conference therefore calls for a multi-faceted approach to endometriosis, encompassing increased research funding, support for affected individuals in workplace and education settings, and the allocation of resources for organisations working on endometriosis. Conference urges the Scottish Government to launch a nationwide awareness campaign aimed at promoting early recognition of endometriosis symptoms among women. Conference further calls on the Scottish Government to work with healthcare professionals to develop guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis, ensuring standardized and effective care across the country. BO’NESS BRANCH, CLLR STACEY DEVINE, WEST FIFE & COASTAL VILLAGES BRANCH, BRAES BRANCH, BONNYBRIDGE AND LARBERT BRANCH, DENNY AND BANKNOCK BRANCH, GRANGMOUTH BRANCH, FALKIRK SOUTH BRANCH, LINLITHGOW BRANCH, CLLR FIONA COLLIE, CLLR GARY BOUSE, CLLR BRYAN DEAKIN, CLLR CONOR MCMANUS, CLLR PAULINE ORR, CLLR PAULINE STAFFORD, CLLR WILLIE BOYLE, CLLR GRAHAM CAMPBELL, CLLR KATIE HAGMANN, CLLR KELLY PARRY – LOCAL GOVERNMENT CONVENER, MARTYN DAY MP, JOHN MCNALLY MP, OWEN THOMSON MP

26 ADDITIONAL SUPPORT NEEDS IN EARLY EDUCATION Conference recognises that for some young children with a profound disability, going into the education system can be a daunting prospect for these young children and their families. Conference notes that all children are obliged to be in Primary one, and in formal education by the age of five. However, conference recommends that children with a profound disability with the potential to impact their education in later years, but who have reached the age of five by the beginning of the school year, should all be considered for, and supported to remain, in early years for one additional funded year of access. Conference recommends further that all Scottish councils should allow for children with a profound disability, to have the choice of one additional funded year in pre-school education. CLLR LOUISE MCALLISTER, GILLIAN MARTIN MSP

FRINGE MEETING Date: Monday 16th October Time: 9.15- 10.15am Location: Conference Suite 3, First Floor, The Event Complex Aberdeen

Andrea Bradley, EIS General Secretary, and Andrene Bamford, EIS Ex-President discuss the current issues in Scottish Education with Jenny Gilruth MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills. Followed by a Q & A session.

Agenda

Tuesday 17 October 27 HISTORY OF SOUTH ASIAN SOLDIERS Conference believes and expresses concern that there has been a long disregard of the major role played by the people of the “Commonwealth”; a large number who participated and supported Britain. Soldiers from the Asian subcontinent were on the frontlines during both world wars many of whom gave their lives to protect Britain. Millions of soldiers from the different colonies over the world that formed the British Empire fought for Britain, over 4 million of these soldiers were South Asians from pre partitioned India, now known as India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. Some of these soldiers’ graves can be found in the Highlands of Scotland yet there is no mention in Scotland’s history of the huge role played by the people of the Commonwealth. There is also no reference in educational history books that are taught throughout Scotland of the contributions and sacrifices made by the millions of South Asian soldiers. The history books used in schools also fail to mention the real facts around the conduct of ‘British Raj’ over the people it colonised. History represents Britain as the ‘white saviour’; the real ruthlessness in the way Britain ruled is censored out of history. Conference recognises that South Asians make up the largest minority group in Scotland. Proud to be Scottish, and as a 4th/5th Generation of Scottish Asians, they still do not see themselves reflected in the history of this country - a country that their ancestors fought and died for. South Asian children do not see people of their colour in the history books that are used in education. Conference it is imperative and more than important now that the history of these brave soldiers and their contributions are taught in our schools. It is essential that our young children are educated on this matter especially now where there is a growing negative rhetoric against immigrants, society is fuelled by divide, and many of the South Asians and other communities from the Commonwealth are seen as foreigners. Unfortunately, we live in a society where there is sadly an anti-migrant rhetoric, rise of Islamophobia and other racial attacks and sadly the shambolic decision of Brexit by the Tories has fuelled this negativity, so we hope that if our history is taught in schools it will help to overturn some of these issues faced in society today. The inclusion of this material being taught to our children will show the integration of South Asians into society, show that we see ourselves as Scots first and hope to be seen as such.

Conference introducing the contributions made by the South Asian population in our history lessons plays a vital role in ensuring that Scotland’s society is a more integrated cohesive society where we are all seen as one but also honours the contributions and sacrifices made by them. Therefore, Conference calls the party to support the change in the narrative in the way history is taught in schools. History should reflect the facts and be inclusive not just play to the mainstream audiences. As the largest minority group South Asians are part of the rich multicultural history of Scotland, and therefore should rightly see their part reflected within the curriculum taught in schools. This will not only identify key roles played by the South Asians, but it is crucial in achieving a more united Scotland built by many generations of people from all ethnicities and backgrounds. It can also help counter the negatives that are in society today such as racism and Islamophobia and give a sense of inclusion but most importantly conference it will teach about contributions and sacrifices made that will inspire our youth for a more free, prosperous and independent Scotland. SCOTS ASIANS FOR INDEPENDENCE AMENDMENT Remove from ‘Millions of soldiers’ to ‘India, Pakistan and Bangladesh’, and replace with ‘Millions of soldiers from the different colonies over the world that formed the British Empire fought for Britain, over 4 million of these soldiers were South Asians from pre-partitioned India, now known as India, Pakistan and Bangladesh as well as from Nepal, Burma and Sri Lanka.’ GLASGOW CATHCART CONSTITUENCY BRANCH

F R I N G E

E V E N T S

A T

S N P

C O N F E R E N C E

2 0 2 3

Is Green Finance Scotland’s

How do we make the Deposit Return

vehicle for growth?

Scheme a success story for the

Sunday 15 October 16.30-17.30 Conference Suite 4

environment and for Scotland? Monday 16 October, 16.30– 17.30, Conference Suite 4

FOOD AND REFRESHMENTS

with S H O N A R O B I S O N M S P , Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Finance, Scottish Government

FOOD AND REFRESHMENTS

with IVAN MCKEE MSP, former Minister for Business, Trade, Tourism and Enterprise and COLLETTE STEVENSON MSP

Has Scotland’s Net Zero Strategy

Restoring Consumer Trust in Energy

left Offshore Energy adrift?

Markets for a Just Transition

Sunday 15 October 16.30-17.30 Meeting Room 1

Tuesday 17 October 09.00-10.00 Conference Suite 4

FOOD AND REFRESHMENTS

with N E I L G R A Y M S P , Cabinet Secretary for Wellbeing Economy, Fair Work and Energy, Scottish Government

Tackling the Divide: Exploring Health Inequalities in Scotland Monday 16 October 09.15-10.15 Conference Suite 4 FOOD AND REFRESHMENTS

with M I C H A E L M AT H E S O N M S P, Cabinet Secretary for NHS Recovery, Health and Social Care, Scottish Government

with T O M A R T H U R M S P , Minister for Community Wealth and Public Finance, Scottish Government, and D A V E D O O G A N M P , Shadow SNP Spokesperson (Energy Security and Net Zero)

A Health and Care Workforce Fit for the Future Tuesday 17 October 12.30-13.30 Conference Suite 4 FOOD AND REFRESHMENTS

with M I C H A E L M AT H E S O N M S P, Cabinet Secretary for NHS Recovery, Health and Social Care, Scottish Government

DRINKS RECEPTION

The Editor’s Club: In Conversation with Neil Gray Sunday 15 October | 18:00- 20:00 | Conference Suite 4 with N E I L G R A Y M S P , Cabinet Secretary for Wellbeing Economy, Fair Work and Energy, Scottish Government and M A N D Y R H O D E S , Managing Director, Holyrood Communications and Editor of Holyrood Magazine

Exhibitors

15-17 October 02

01 SNP Headquarters Desk The SNP Headquarters desk, situated in the main concourse of The Event Complex Aberdeen, is your point of contact for all general information and enquiries.

Independence Independence Magazine Visit our Stand in the Exhibition Hall. Say hello or join up on the spot. We’re the Party’s own magazine and have raised thousands of pounds for the cause to date. One direct debit is all it takes to have INDEPENDENCE posted direct to your home every eight weeks. Join now!

Website: www.snp.org Email: member@snp.org

Twitter: @independencemag Email: indymag@saltiregraphics.scot

04 SNP Store The SNP Store offers official SNP merchandise. Website: www.snpstore.org

Community Windpower Limited Supporting Scotland’s Net Zero ambitions since 2005, by operating 9 onshore wind farms and developing a portfolio of 1.5GW of wind, hydrogen, and battery storage projects. We are committed to the Scottish supply chain, investing £2bn in Scotland PLC by 2026. Our projects are at the heart of communities and have delivered over £8m in funding, supporting energy saving and legacy initiatives. Website: www.communitywindpower.co.uk Email: info@communitywindpower.co.uk

06 Aberdeen Host Committee The Donside Branch welcomes you back to our city, come visit us for local treats, games and city information. We hope you will enjoy your conference and time in Aberdeen.

Care Not Killing What type of NHS do we want in Scotland? One that cares for the vulnerable? Or one which suggests they’re better off dead? Care Not Killing campaigns for better palliative care and opposes the legalisation of assisted suicide and euthanasia. Email: campaign@carenotkilling.org.uk Twitter: twitter.com/CNKScotland Website: https://carenotkilling.scot/

08 Scots Independent (Newspapers) Ltd We were the first newspaper that supported the SNP. Visit our website at www.scotsindependent.scot which is updated weekly and where you can subscribe to the paper. Alternatively ring 01542 840551 . Come and see us at our stall – Scottish books – Soaps – flags. NEW STOCK Email: ianptk@scotsindependent.scot Phone: 01542 840551 Website: www.scotsindependent.scot

People’s Postcode Lottery Players of People’s Postcode Lottery have raised over £1.1 billion for over 14,500 good causes. Visit our stand to find out what players have funded in your constituency. Email: PublicAffairs@postcodelottery.co.uk Website: www.postcodelottery.info

Exhibitors

15-17 October 09

10 Post Office With over 11,500 branches across the UK, Post Office is the largest retailer in the country providing essential mails and banking services to consumers and businesses alike. Free cash deposits and withdrawals are available at the Post Office stand.

bp Visit the bp stand where we are showcasing our work as a Scottish Champion, in action on the challenge to boost home-grown energy and cut emissions on the path to net zero

Twitter: https://twitter.com/PostOfficeNews Website: https://www.postoffice.co.uk/

12 Advice Direct Scotland Advice Direct Scotland is the Scottish Government’s delivery partner for energy and consumer advice, and has seen huge growth in demand for its services since the pandemic and cost-of-living crisis. The organisation also provides expert advice on debt and benefits, delivering services to all of Scotland.

Scottish Water Scottish Water is publicly owned. With more than 60,000 miles of pipes and over 2,000 treatment works, we support communities and are innovating to achieve net zero by 2040. Vital to everyone’s lives, we look after this precious natural resource 365 days a year.

Phone: 0808 800 9060 Social Media: @advicedotscot Website: www.advicedirect.scot

Email: Help@scottishwater.co.uk Phone: 0800 0778 778 Social Media: @scottish_water Website: www.scottishwater.co.uk/

14 RNIB Scotland The Royal National Institute of Blind People Scotland supports blind and partially sighted people of all ages live as fully and independently as possible. It provides advice and support and campaigns to improve the lives of people with sight loss.

REVIVE – the coalition for grouse moor reform The REVIVE coalition is made up of animal welfare, environmental and social justice organisations working on grouse moor reform in Scotland. Email: elizachiswell@league.org.uk Phone: 07508580724 Twitter: twitter.com/ReviveCoalition Website: revive.scot/the-coalition/

16 Scottish Renewables Scottish Renewables is the voice of Scotland’s renewable energy industry. We work to grow Scotland’s renewable energy sector and sustain its position at the forefront of the global clean energy industry. Find out more at: www.scottishrenewables.com

BBC 2023 is the BBC’s centenary in Scotland – 100 years of educating, informing and entertaining. Come to the world’s leading public service broadcaster’s stand to hear about the value the BBC brings to Scotland and celebrate Doctor Who’s 60th anniversary too. Website: www.BBC.co.uk

Exhibitors

15-17 October 18

17 SNP Friends of Palestine Visit the SNP Friends of Palestine stand, which is supported by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign and Medical Aid for Palestinians. Come find out how you can get involved, and join the Palestine fringe meeting on Sunday at 4.30pm!

Email: campaigns@chss.org.uk Twitter: twitter.com/chsscotland Website: www.chss.org.uk/

20 Marie Curie Marie Curie is the largest third sector provider of palliative and end of life care services in Scotland for adults. We are committed to ensuring that everyone has the best end of life experience possible. Email: Thomas.Mulvey@mariecurie.org.uk Social Media: @MarieCurieSco Website: mariecurie.org.uk

Chest Heart and Stroke Scotland Chest Heart and Stroke Scotland are Scotland’s largest health charity working to help people with chest, heart and stroke conditions live life to the full.

Electrical Safety First

Electrical Safety First is the charity dedicated to reducing deaths and injuries caused by electrical accidents. We aim to ensure everyone can use electricity safely by campaigning for improved electrical safety regulations and increasing consumer awareness of safety risks.

Email: karter.kane@electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk Website: electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk/scotland

21 British Heart Foundation Scotland BHF Scotland is the largest independent funder of cardiovascular research in Scotland. We currently fund research worth over £52 million with the aim of improving the lives of the 700,000 people living with heart and circulatory diseases in Scotland.

A Scotland That Cares Scotland’s carers are invisible but invaluable. The ‘A Scotland that cares’ campaign, backed by more than 60 organisations, is calling for a new, dedicated National Outcome on care and carers in Scotland to address the deep, longstanding undervaluation of care.

Email: holyrood@bhf.org.uk Social Media: @BHFScotland

Email: Scotland@oxfam.org.uk Website: www.ascotlandthatcares.org

24 Unison Scotland UNISON is the public services union and Scotland’s largest union with more than 150,000 members working in education, local government, the NHS, police service, NDPBs, water and energy. They are employed in the public, voluntary and private sectors.

European Movement in Scotland The European Movement in Scotland is the only organisation with the courage, capacity and commitment to guide our return to the EU. Whether educating our leaders or citizens in the workings of the EU, or campaigning for membership of the world’s largest bloc, we are leading the drive to restore our place alongside our European partners.

Exhibitors

15-17 October 26

25 Coalfields Regeneration Trust Scotland The Coalfields Regeneration Trust is an independent UK wide charity. Our mission is to lead the way in coalfields regeneration. We are the only organisation dedicated solely to the regeneration of coalfield communities in Scotland.

Guide Dogs Guide Dogs helps the two million people living with sight loss in the UK live the life they choose. Come along to learn about our campaigns to help people with a vision impairment live the life they choose. Email: publicaffairs@guidedos.org.uk Phone: 0800 781 1444 Social Media: @guidedogsscot Website: www.guidedogs.org.uk/

Email: crt.hub@coalfields-regen.org.uk Phone: 01259 230910 Facebook: facebook.com/CRTScotland Website: www.coalfields-regen.org.uk/

28 Educational Institute of Scotland The Educational Institute of Scotland (EIS) is Scotland’s largest teaching trade union with almost 65,000 members employed in nursery, primary, special, secondary, further and higher education. The EIS represents over 80% of all teachers and lecturers in Scotland and campaigns to protect and improve their pay and conditions of service as well as seeking to promote “sound learning” across all sectors.

Cancer Research UK

Cancer Research UK is the world’s largest independent cancer charity dedicated to saving lives through research. We support research into over 200 types of cancer, and our vision is to bring forward the day when all cancers are cured. In 2022/23, we invested around £33 million in research in Scotland. Email: scotlandpa@cancer.org.uk Phone: 0300 1231022 Twitter: twitter.com/CRUKScotland Website: www.cancerresearchuk.org/

29 Engender Engender is Scotland’s feminist policy and advocacy organisation, working to increase women’s power and influence and to make visible the impact of sexism on women, men and society. We provide support to individuals, organisations and institutions who seek to achieve gender equality and justice.

Moray CA SNP Moray SNP Malt Whisky & Gin Stall brings you the opportunity to become the proud owner of some of the Moray Speyside’s fantastic Malt Whisky and Gin. Our products travel well throughout the world with a reputation second to none.

Email: info@engender.org.uk Phone: 07923236488 Instagram: www.instagram.com/ engender.scot/ Website: www.engender.org.uk/

Website: www.moraysnp.org Twitter: @MoraySNP Facebook: fb.com/MoraySNP

32 SNP Students The Federation of Student Nationalists (SNP Students) are the Student wing of the SNP. Our University societies lead discussion, debate, and social events across the year to engage students in politics and our party. Instagram: @SNPStudents Twitter: @SNP Students

Young Scots for Independence The YSI is the affiliated youth wing of the SNP for members under the age of 30. Email: contact@ysiscotland.com Website: www.ysiscotland.com Twitter: www.twitter.com/YSINational Facebook: facebook.com/YSINational Instagram: instagram.com/YSINATIONAL

Exhibitors

15-17 October 33

34 SNP BAME Members Network

Meet the Black Asian Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities affiliate on the SNP National Executive - formed for challenging racism, increasing BAME representation/ participation in politics and building support amongst BAME communities who are crucial for widening the majority needed for Independence. Email: snpbame@hotmail.com Phone: 07927436269 Instagram: @snpbame Website: facebook.com/snpbame/

Out for Independence Out for Independence is the SNP’s LGBTQ+ affiliate group. We represent our members’ interests, champion LGBTQ policy, and campaign for a fair, progressive, and independent Scotland. Email: info@outforindy.scot Website: http://outforindy.scot/

Lloyds Banking Group is a leading financial services group and the UK’s largest retail and commercial bank. Our combined history goes all the way back to 1695. We have a footprint that touches nearly every community and household in the UK. Here in Scotland we serve 2.4 million personal banking customers, while more than 100,000 Scottish businesses trust us with their banking. Major parts of our business are headquartered in Scotland, including Bank of Scotland and Scottish Widows and we have also grown our Embark investment platform, based in Dundee.

45 SSEN Transmission We are responsible for the electricity transmission network in the north of Scotland and are investing over £10bn to upgrade the network infrastructure between now and 2030 as the region plays a leading role in the just transition to Net Zero. www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/

NASUWT - The Teachers’ Union

NASUWT Scotland is The Teachers’ Union and is the voice of the teaching profession. Our aim is to improve and protect the status, morale and working conditions of the teaching profession so that teachers and head teachers can provide the best education and support to children and young people, ensuring that teachers and head teachers are recognised and rewarded as highly skilled professionals with working conditions that enable them to focus on their core role of leading teaching and learning. Email: Scotland@mail.nasuwt.org.uk Phone: 0131 226 8480 Social Media: @NASUWT Website: www.nasuwt.org.uk

47 SNP Socialists & Ukraine Solidarity Campaign Scotland & Another Europe is Possible SNP Socialists - the party’s left policy activists circle - alongside anti-Brexit campaign Another Europe Is Possible encourages SNP delegates to support Ukraine Solidarity Campaign Scotland which amplifies trade unionist and social movement voices in Ukraine’s fight against Russian imperialist aggression.

Phone: 07538419339 (Pete) 07269436269 (Graham) twitter.com/SNP_Socialists twitter.com/Another_Europe facebook.com/USCScotland/ www.facebook.com/snpsocialists/ www.facebook.com/USCScotland/ www.anothereurope.org/launching-ukraineand-the-world/

Stands 35-44 is our Small Business Marketplace and includes the following businesses.

Jade Elizabeth Designs is an Award Winning Textile brand, specialising in one - of - a - kind fashion accessories. Here, we strictly believe in only providing the best quality items that are made from locally sourced, sustainable materials. Individuality and comfort is a must, and Here at Jade Elizabeth, we help you to stand out from the crowd with beautifully illustrated accessories to brighten up any outfit!

An original cosmetics and skincare brand using natural and naturally derived active ingredients with a focus on quality, value for money and ethical ingredients, all handmade in Montrose.

With yarns, accessories, gifts, workshops, friendly service and expert advice, Wool for Ewe is your multi award winning wool shop in the heart of Rosemount. Bring this with you to receive 10% off a single purchase before 24/12/23. 83-85 Rosemount place, Aberdeen, AB25 2YE. Email: info@woolforewe.com Call: 01224 643 738

Born out of the frustration of the lack of good quality Scottish t-shirts we decided to create our own! Hand printed in our workshop in Glasgow, we create a variety of designs inspired by everything Scottish, using environmentally friendly ink and climate neutral t-shirts. The pride in our country is always on display! (We also do commissions!)

Pieute is a Clothes Shop/Brand from Edinburgh. We believe Scotland has self-confidence issues and think the way to build confidence in a nation is by pushing identity and inclusive community. This is the role we have chosen in the fight for independence. We sell clothes and accessories, Scottish passport covers and “Scottish Tap Water” bottles. Everything we make is ethically sourced and high quality. Our goal is to be 100% Made in Scotland.

Sip Stitch Creations creates lovingly handmade wearables, accessories and homewares that are great for gifting or keeping for yourself with both custom also available, as well as reusable products that can be used again and again.

Exhibitors

15-17 October 49

48 Save the Children Scotland Save the Children wants to see a Scotland where no child experiences poverty and all children have an equal chance to flourish. We work in partnership to deliver a sustainable reduction in child poverty with the voices of those experiencing poverty at the heart of all we do.

First Bus (Scotland) Working in partnership with local councils, First Bus provides efficient, low carbon public transport across Greater Glasgow and Aberdeen. Through battery electric and hydrogen buses, our dedicated workforce delivers essential and sustainable bus services that keep communities connected.

Twitter: @SaveChildrenSCO Website: www.savethechildren.org.uk/scotland Email: infoscotland@savethechildren.org.uk

56 Save Scottish Seas Save Scottish Seas is coordinated by Scottish Environment LINK’s Marine Group. The campaign seeks to ensure that Scotland’s seas are ecologically healthy and diverse, and are protected for their ecosystem services, ability to tackle climate change and importance to all of society. Email: information@scotlink.org Website: www.scotlink.org/linkcampaigns/save-scottish-seas/ Twitter: @SaveScotsSeas

Website: www.firstbus.co.uk

Scottish Alcohol Industry Partnership The Scottish Alcohol Industry Partnership (SAIP) is a vehicle for industry partners to work together to support, devise and deliver initiatives that contribute towards the promotion of responsible drinking and tackle alcohol-related harm in Scotland. Email: dmeikle@swa.org.uk Website: www.saip.org.uk/

57 The Fire Brigades Union The Fire Brigades Union is the democratic, professional voice of firefighters and other workers within Fire and Rescue Services across the UK, providing a leading, independent voice that helps protect the safety and interests of our members and the public.

British Red Cross From helping people home from hospital to responding to emergencies like Covid, storms and floods and being the largest independent provider of refugee support, we help people in crisis get the support they need in Scotland and around the world.

Email: Region01@fbu.org.uk Facebook: @firebrigadesunionscotland Twitter(X): @fbuscotland Website: fbu.org.uk/regions-nations/scotland

Twitter: @RedCrossScot

60 Disabled Members Group The Disabled Members Group (DMG) is the wing of the Scottish National Party for Disabled people and carers of disabled people.

Conference Photo Booth Get your photo taken at the SNP Conference Photobooth and remember to tag yourself and people you know when they appear on the SNP Facebook Page.

Twitter: @SNP_DMG Twitter: @theSNP Facebook: @theSNP Instagram: @theSNP Website: www.snp.org/ #SNP23

Exhibitors

15-17 October 62

61 RSPB Scotland RSPB Scotland is dedicated to creating a world richer in nature. We work with our partners using evidence-based solutions to recover threatened species, protect and restore special places, and inspire everyone to act for nature.

WaspiScotland WaspiScotland represents 1950s born women who have had their State Pensions delayed by successive Governments. We campaign to receive fair and fast compensation for this Injustice which affects not only the women and their families, but also the economy. Email: waspiscotland@gmail.com

Scottish Police Federation The Scottish Police Federation is the staff association that represents over 99% of the police officers in Scotland; currently more than 16,500 members. With a remit for both the welfare of our members and efficiency of the service we are the only statutory consultative body for the police service in Scotland.

Café Area The cafe area to the rear of the exhibition Hall is kindly sponsored by the Phoenix Group. Phoenix Group is the UK’s largest long-term savings and retirement business. We offer our c.12 million customers a range of products through our trusted pensions, savings and life insurance brands.

Social Media: @scotspolfed Website: www.spf.org.uk

Twitter: @PhoenixGroupUK Website: www.thephoenixgroup.com

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Fringe Programme

Fringe Meetings

Sunday 15 October EARLY AFTERNOON

Sunday 15 October Meeting Room 1, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 12h30 - 13h30

Sunday 15 October Meeting Room 2, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 12h30 - 13h30

Rethinking public transport: how we deliver world class, sustainable, and affordable public transport to support thriving places

Humans at the heart of a just transition

Strathclyde Partnership for Transport – Scotland’s largest transport authority - leads an expert-informed discussion of how we can rethink public transport to deliver world-class, sustainable and affordable public transport across Scotland. Speakers: Councillor Stephen Dornan, Chair, SPT Valerie Davidson, Chief Executive, SPT Jason Prince, Director, Urban Transport Group Fiona Hyslop MSP, Minister for Transport

The RSE welcomed the ambitious whole-system approach to the energy transition outlined in the draft Energy Strategy and Just Transition Plan. At the heart of the just transition is the core principle that those affected by change need to be involved in shaping it. This panel will discuss the role of people in policy making and planning. How do we engage communities more effectively? Are policymakers clearly communicating the risks and opportunities involved in decision-making? This energy transition is very complex economically, politically, and socially and Scotland must ensure it leaves no one behind. Speakers: Michelle Thomson MSP Melfort Campbell, Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh Kirsten Jenkins, University of Edinburgh Chaired by: Andy Sloan, Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh

Sunday 15 October Meeting Room 3, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 12h30 - 13h30

Sunday 15 October Meeting Room 4, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 12h30 - 13h30

Cost-of-living and energy crisis: Ensuring Scots don’t struggle alone

Working wonders: The role of employment support in tackling child poverty

Join Advice Direct Scotland, Scotland’s national advice charity, and Energy Minister Gillian Martin for a discussion on the impact of the cost-of-living crisis and unaffordable energy bills for households across the country. The panel will explore the support available for those at risk of failing into debt or fuel poverty because of soaring bills and high inflation. There will be a question and answer session giving attendees the opportunity to join the discussion. Speakers: Gillian Martin, Minister for Energy & the Environment Conor Forbes, Director of Business Development and Policy, Advice Direct Scotland.

This event will explore the relationship between work and poverty, with a focus on the potential that increased employability and skills can make towards reducing poverty, especially with regards to the ‘priority groups’ identified in the Scottish Government’s tackling poverty delivery plan. Speakers: Emma Roddick MSP, Minister for Equalities, Migration and Refugees Laura Millar, Strategic Manager, Fife Gingerbread Fiona Jones, Head of Partnerships and Employers, Fedcap; Philip Whyte, Director, IPPR Scotland

Rob Fryer, Director of Civils and Business Development, Community Windpower Chaired by: Chris McCall, Deputy Political Editor, The Daily Record

Fringe Meetings

Sunday 15 October EARLY AFTERNOON

Sunday 15 October Meeting Room 6, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 12h30 - 13h30

Sunday 15 October Meeting Room 7, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 12h30 - 13h30

Autism and Learning Disability: Closing the Accountability Gap and Delivering Rights Now

More Europe? How Scotland can reconnect with the EU right now

National Autistic Society Scotland and Enable are campaigning for new laws to protect and promote the rights of autistic people and people with learning disabilities. We do this as these communities continue to face barriers to inclusion in education, employment, social care, healthcare, and housing. Enable launched the ‘Rights! Now’ campaign and National Autistic Society Scotland published its ‘Closing the Accountability Gap’ report this year. These made the case that the Scottish Government’s Learning Disability, Autism, and Neurodiversity Bill, which will include establishing a Commissioner role, must enact systemic change to tackle challenges our members and those we support face.

“More Europe” is a rallying cry for the power of cooperation – cooperation that built the world’s most successful bloc. In Scotland it’s our settled will to re-enter the EU as soon as possible. What can we do in the meantime? By seeking closer relationships and specific Scottish agreements with our European partners, we can pave the way for re-entry. Our panel discussion will explore the possibilities for closer cooperation on that journey. The European Movement in Scotland is an independent, member-led group uniting those from all political parties and those without an affiliation in the advance of the European ideal. Speakers:

Speakers:

Michael Russell, SNP President

Maree Todd MSP, Minister for Social Care, Mental Wellbeing and Sport

Angus Robertson MSP

Suzi Martin, External Affairs Manager, National Autistic Society Scotland

David Clarke, Chairman of EMiS

Fiona Jones, Member, National Autistic Society Scotland Heather Gilchrist, Membership Ambassador, Enable

Cllr Heather Anderson

Sunday 15 October Meeting Room 8, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 12h30 - 13h30

Sunday 15 October Conference Suite 3, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 12h30 - 13h30

A Better Deal for Teachers

Affordable Warmth: tackling the climate and cost of living crises

With NASUWT research showing a rise in violence and abuse against teachers and continued unsustainable workload pressures on the profession, our members are reporting significant adverse impacts on their health and wellbeing. The NASUWT is demanding intervention from the Government to secure a Better Deal for Teachers as part of a range of measures needed to ensure the profession remains attractive and we can recruit and retain the best people. Join us to learn more.

The switch to cleaner heating is vital in the fight against climate change but also addressing the root cause of the cost of living crisis: our exposure to unstable fossil fuel prices. Scotland can play to its strengths to tackle these challenges, harnessing our abundant renewable energy to electrify heating for a cleaner future. Join us to hear about the solutions for Scotland’s varied housing, the opportunities of the clean heat transition and how to tackle critical issues like fuel poverty and reducing upfront costs.

Speakers: Jenny Gilruth MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills

Speakers:

Darren Wapplington, NASUWT - The Teachers’ Union

Eileen Anderson, Scottish Power Commercial Development Manager, Strategic Heat

Fabrice Leveque, WWF

Dave Hawkey, Senior Research Fellow, IPPR Scotland NESTA tbc;

Fringe Meetings

Sunday 15 October EARLY AFTERNOON

Sunday 15 October Meeting Room 5, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 12h30 - 13h30

Organiser’s Workshop Campaign strategy and planning with opening remarks from Keith Brown (Deputy Leader), academic research on voter identification and campaign methods by Professor Kate Dommett and current campaigning by Jen Layden (Organisation Covener). Followed by workshop discussions on best practice. The event is intended primarily for organisers. Speakers: Keith Brown MSP, Depute leader Professor Kate Dommett, Professor of Digital Politics Chaired By: Jen Layden, Organisation Convener MEMBERS ONLY

Fringe Meetings

Sunday 15 October LATE AFTERNOON

Sunday 15 October Conference Suite 1A, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 16h30 - 17h30

Sunday 15 October Conference Suite 3, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 16h30 - 17h30

Our land: Changing the balance of power with land reform

Scotland’s Rail Industry in conversation with Transport Minister Fiona Hyslop MSP

This land is your land but large landowners and sport shooting interests having dominated much of Scotland for long enough, with little challenge to their power until recent years. With a land reform bill on the horizon it’s time to step things up. Join us as we plot a path to changing the balance of power and how the Scottish National Party can now use its position to do that.

Amanda Burgauer, Director of Common Weal

The need for investment in Scotland’s railways has never been more relevant or important as passenger and freight numbers continue to reach record levels. All delegates are invited to join us for a lively hour of chat and discussion about Scotland’s railways with Transport Minister Fiona Hyslop MSP and Chair of RIA Scotland’s leadership group Meirion Thomas. The event will be chaired by former journalist and rail consultant Devin Scobie. RIA Scotland’s event is hosted in partnership with the High Speed Rail Group.

Josh Doble, Policy Manager, Community Land Scotland

Speakers:

Speakers: Max Wiszniewski, Campaign Manager for REVIVE

Chaired by: Robbie Marsland Director of League Against Cruel Sports

Fiona Hyslop MSP, Minister for Transport Meirion Thomas, Chair, RIA Scotland Leadership Group Chaired by: Devin Scobie (Independent Consultant)

Fringe Meetings

Sunday 15 October LATE AFTERNOON

Sunday 15 October Conference Suite 4, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 16h30 - 17h30

Sunday 15 October Meeting Room 1, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 16h30 - 17h30

Is Green Finance Scotland’s vehicle for growth?

Lessons From Scotland: How to Fix Westminster’s Broken Political Culture

Scotland is now established as a world-leader in green finance: an industry whose pace and scale of activity will be critical in securing a successful COP28. After a winter of soaring interest rates and geopolitical uncertainty, what are some of the ways finance can generate necessary growth for Scotland and the UK as a whole? Join us as we bring together thought and industry leaders to review the progress made in the green finance sector, as well as the practical steps needed to deliver a sustainable future for people and planet.

British political culture is overly-centralised, adversarial and ineffective, and this leaves it ill-equipped to tackle our most pressing social, economic and environmental issues. Our panel will explore the way in which Westminster’s voting system and unwritten constitution contributes to this malaise, as well as the positive impact that proportional representation has had on Scottish politics. Speakers:

Speakers:

Tommy Sheppard MP

Shona Robison MSP, Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Finance, Scottish Government

Kirsty Blackman MP

Chris Hayward, Policy Chair, City of London Corporation Alan Whittle, Lecturer in Sustainable Finance, Robert Gordon University Eilidh Whiteford, Senior Advisor, True North and former MP for Banff and Buchan Chaired by: Doug Thomson, Former Fund Manager and Company Director

Amanda Burgauer, Director - Common Weal Klina Jordan, Chief Executive Make Votes Matter Tom Brake, Director - Unlock Democracy

Sunday 15 October Meeting Room 2, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 16h30 - 17h30

Sunday 15 October Meeting Room 3, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 16h30 - 17h30

Justice for Palestine

Beyond Talk - Scottish youth on the need for action on climate

Palestinians are experiencing a growing humanitarian crisis, amid a deeply inequitable context that numerous leading human rights organisations - including Amnesty International - have concluded amounts to the crime of apartheid. This situation is fuelled by the international community’s persistent failure to end impunity for violations of international law – including Israeli forces’ routine use of excessive force, settlement expansion, demolition of Palestinian homes and infrastructure, rampant settler violence, and attacks against health workers. Join our expert panel discussing how SNP members can help uphold international law, ensure meaningful accountability, and equip Palestinian health services and civil society with the resources they need.

Join us for a round table discussion inviting young people and SNP politicians to discuss what can be done on the climate crisis. In 2019 the Scottish Government declared a climate emergency, and since then talk has focused on how we achieve net zero without leaving communities behind. This roundtable will focus on the hopes and fears of young people in Scotland and the SNP’s Energy Strategy and Just Transition plan. Speakers: TBC

Speakers: Saleh Hijazi, Palestinian activist & author of Amnesty International’s report “Israel’s Apartheid against Palestinians” Kamel Hawwash, Chair, Palestine Solidarity Campaign Manal Shqair, International Advocacy Officer, Stop the Wall Campaign Halla Keir, Advocacy and Research Officer, Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP) Chaired by: Chris Law MP

Fringe Meetings

Sunday 15 October LATE AFTERNOON Scotland’s Regional Moorland Group Sunday 15 October Meeting Room 4, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 16h30 - 17h30

Sunday 15 October Meeting Room 5, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 16h30 - 17h30

Standing up for rural Scotland - Our route to tackling the climate and biodiversity crises

Has Scotland’s Net Zero Strategy left Offshore Energy adrift?

Now more than ever, Scotland’s rural communities are playing a fundamental role in fighting the climate and biodiversity crises. Join us for refreshments and a lively panel discussion with Scotland’s leading rural organisations, chaired by Audrey Nicoll MSP. Speakers: Lianne MacLennan, Scotland’s Regional Moorland Groups Peter Clark, BASC Scotland Ross Ewing, Scottish Land & Estates Caroline Pringle, Wildlife Estates Scotland

A just energy transition is essential to tackle the climate crisis. Findings by OEUK revealed that offshore energy could invest up to £200bn on UK energy production and technology projects in the remainder of this decade to help deliver government energy targets. This session will ask how offshore energy can be mobilised to achieve Net Zero, support the pre-existing workforce and lead the Just Transition movement. Join us as we bring together representatives from government, the offshore energy sector and academia to explore steps needed to prepare the offshore workforce ensuring Scotland remains on track to deliver its climate targets. Speakers: Neil Gray MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Wellbeing Economy, Fair Work and Energy, Scottish Government Dave Whitehouse, Chief Executive Officer, OEUK Sarah Cridland, VP Commercial & Subsea Projects UK, Med & Caspian and UK Country Manager at TechnipFMC Stephen Sheal, Director of Government Affairs and Policy, Net Zero Technology Centre Sarah Cridland, Vice President VP Commercial & Subsea Projects UK, Med & Caspian and UK Country Manager at TechnipFMC Chaired by: Professor Paul de Leeuw, Director of the RGU Energy Transition Institute

Sunday 15 October Meeting Room 7, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 16h30 - 17h30

Sunday 15 October Meeting Room 8, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 16h30 - 17h30

2030: HIV, Time’s Up! Terrence Higgins Trust and Out for Independence Panel Discussion

How Trade Unions can help create a new Scotland

Hosted by Out for Independence and Terrence Higgins Trust – the UKs leading HIV and sexual health charity – this panel event provides attendees an opportunity to celebrate how far we have come over the past 40 years in combating HIV transmission in Scotland. It will also allow discussion on what comes next in Scotland’s path to eliminating new cases of HIV by 2030 and how we can work together to realise this ambition and ensure Scotland is the first country in the world to achieve this goal.

The powers of independence are about major economic change and the transformation of our public services, as well as political autonomy and an environmentally sustainable future. But the task of regenerating Scotland starts right now, and trade unions and working people are absolutely central to this task. Join senior Scottish union figures to discuss the economic path to a better future – including the STUC’s proposals for using existing powers and gaining more powers to enable real change. Speakers:

Speakers:

Dave Moxham, Deputy General Secretary, STUC

Emma Roddick MSP (Minister for Equalities, Migration and Refugees)

Lilian Macer, Convener of Unison Scotland

Richard Angell, Chief Executive at Terrence Higgins Trust Erin Lux, Co-Convener of Out for Independence

John McKenzie, Scottish Regional Secretary, Fire Brigades Union Chris Stephens MP

Chaired By: Paul Robertson, Head of Public Affairs at BIG Partnership and Former SNP Adviser

Receptions

Sunday 15 October EVENING Denmark - the State of Happiness Premiere Sunday 15 October Hall C, Ground Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 17h30 - 18h30

They are the happiest people on earth, with the most energy sustainable country and bike use higher than the Netherlands, a swim no further than 15 mins from every Copenhagen resident and state-run TV that changed the face of drama with Borgen, the Killing and the Bridge.Yet Denmark is small (the same population and a fraction of Scotland’s land mass) with very little oil/coal/gas to fuel their economy and an empire lost - just like Britain. Still, the Danes bounced back to become the modern, eco-leaders of Europe, while Westminster has collapsed into Little Englanderism. How did they do it? Sunday 15th October is the film’s premiere - with an estimated run time of 60 minutes, a Q&A with Lesley and Charlie, courtesy of the Scottish Independence Foundation and a generous co-funder.

SNP Diplomatic Reception Kindly sponsored by: The Investment Association

Sunday 15th October 2023 Conference Suite 1C, First Floor, The Event Complex Aberdeen 17h45 - 18h45 INVITATION ONLY

SNP Westminster Reception Kindly sponsored by: SSE Renewables

Sunday 15th October 2023 Conference Suite 1B, First Floor, The Event Complex Aberdeen 18h30 - 20h00 All MPs and their staff teams welcome

Sunday 15th October 2023 Conference Suite 4, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 18h00 - 20h00

Sunday 15th October Conference Suite 1A, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 19h45 - 21h15

Holyrood - Editor’s Club: In Conversation with Neil Gray

Media Reception

Join Holyrood magazine editor, Mandy Rhodes, for a glass of wine and a convivial ‘in conversation’ with Neil Gray MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Wellbeing Economy, Fair Work and Energy Scottish Government, to find out what makes him tick.

SGN

Kindly sponsored by:

ALL ACCREDITED MEDIA WELCOME

Speakers: Neil Gray MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Wellbeing Economy, Fair Work and Energy Scottish Government. Chaired By: Mandy Rhodes, Managing Director, Holyrood Communications and Editor of Holyrood Magazine

Fringe Meetings

Monday 16 October MORNING

Monday 16 October Meeting Room 1, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 09h15 - 10h15

Monday 16 October Meeting Room 2, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 09h15 - 10h15

SNP Disabled Members’ Convener

Understanding the SNP Voter: Evidence from the Scottish Election Study

Trauma & Mental Health Services Join us in an open discussion on Trauma and Mental Health Services in Scotland. We will explore how services are experienced by service users, Mental Health staff and the Scottish Government’s current policies. Speakers: Maree Todd MSP, Minister for Social Care, Mental Wellbeing and Sport Emily Cheung, Mental Health Nurse & Equalities Officer Meadows & Morningside Branch

The 2021 Holyrood election saw the relationship between Yes support and SNP vote choice reach its highest peak yet, but it seems voter attitudes may be shifting. Join Scottish Election Study team-members Prof. Ailsa Henderson, Prof. Christopher Carman and Dr. Fraser McMillan for a presentation and Q&A as they discuss the evolution of public priorities, constitutional attitudes and views on the party using their latest polling data. The team will be joined by Alison Thewliss MP and DC Thomson’s head data journalist Lesley-Anne Kelly.

Andy Stuart, Disabled Members Convener Speakers: MEMBERS ONLY

Alison Thewliss MP Prof. Ailsa Henderson, Prof. Christopher Carman, Dr. Fraser McMillan, Lesley-Anne Kerr Chaired by: Justin Bowie, DC Thomson, Politics Reporter

Monday 16 October Meeting Room 3, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 09h15 - 10h15

Monday 16 October Meeting Room 4, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 09h15 - 10h15

Financing a Just Agricultural Transition for Climate and Nature

Why reducing poverty will be a key battleground in the 2026 Holyrood election

Join WWF Scotland and Royal Bank of Scotland in partnership for a discussion with key voices from Scottish agriculture, on how private finance can interact and complement a future farming policy in Scotland. We will also explore how the future farm payments system can create a policy environment where farmers and crofters are enabled and empowered to respond to a changing climate and changing market incentives. Speakers: Deputy First Minister, Shona Robison MSP Roddy McLean, Director of Agriculture, Royal Bank of Scotland Judith Cruickshank, Managing Director, Commercial Mid Market, Royal Bank of Scotland, and Chair of the Scotland Board Nikki Yoxall, Grampian Graziers and Pasture for Life Chaired by: Lang Banks, Director, WWF Scotland INVITATION ONLY

Join the Joseph Rowntree Foundation to hear about exclusive polling into the Scottish electorate’s priorities and who they trust most to deliver on them. We will explore how poverty reduction will be a key battleground in the next Holyrood election and the sorts of solutions that the public support with statutory child poverty reduction targets looming. Hear from our Associate Director, Chris Birt, public opinion and political expert, Mark Diffley, the Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Shirley-Anne Somerville MSP, and Liz Lloyd, policy and politics consultant and former Chief of Staff, with time for questions, discussion and debate. Speakers: Shirley-Anne Sommerville, MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice Chris Birt, Associate Director for Scotland, Joseph Rowntree Foundation Mark Diffley, Founder and Director, Diffley Partnership Liz Lloyd, Policy and Politics Consultant and Former Chief of Staff

This is an invite-only breakfast event for MSPs, MPs, and other invited guests.

Fringe Meetings

Monday 16 October MORNING

Monday 16 October Meeting Room 5, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 09h15 - 10h15

Monday 16 October Meeting Room 7, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 09h15 - 10h15

National Secretary Hustings

Scotland’s Future: A Just Transition from Oil and Gas

A chance to hear from your candidates for National Secretary, join us for a morning of questions and find out more about their plans for one of the most important roles in our party.. Chaired by: SNP Students, National Convener MEMBERS ONLY

Scotland needs to phase out fossil fuels as a matter of urgency, with offshore workers and their communities at the forefront of planning and delivering this transition. At this event we’ll discuss key places in which environmental activists, trade unionists, workers, and communities can come together to lobby the Scottish Government and campaign collectively for a just transition away from oil and gas. Friends of the Earth Scotland and Platform will also share their Our Power report, which highlights 10 demands created by offshore oil and gas workers themselves, on how a just transition should be meaningfully carried out. Speakers: Alex Lee, False Solutions Campaigner, Friends of the Earth Scotland Rosemary Harris, Just Transition Campaigner, Platform Rosie Hampton, Just Transition Campaigner, Friends of the Earth Scotland Mairi McAllan MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Net Zero and Just Transition Trade Union/Just Transition Partnership representative (TBC)

Monday 16 October Meeting Room 8, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 09h15 - 10h15

Monday 16 October Conference Suite 3, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 09h15 - 10h15

Redesigning our streets for better bus services

Education Matters

Our towns and cities need good, frequent bus services that can avoid congestion to deliver services to meet passenger needs. How do we ensure our streets are designed with public transport and active travel in mind and help deliver a reduction in car kms and a healthier environment? Join this panel event as we explore these key themes.

Speakers: Fiona Hyslop MSP, Minister for Transport

Jenny Gilruth MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills

Duncan Cameron, Managing Director, First Bus Scotland Paul White, Director, CPT Scotland. Councillor Miranda Radley

Fringe Meetings

Monday 16 October MORNING

Monday 16 October Conference Suite 4, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 09h15 - 10h15

Tackling the Divide: Exploring Health Inequalities in Scotland Despite being one of the wealthiest countries in the world, health inequalities are on the rise in Scotland, and have been exacerbated by events such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis. With urgent progress needed, we’ll be considering how socioeconomic factors are influencing health inequalities and what further action is needed to improve health outcomes. Bringing together a range of health organisations, the conversation will focus on ensuring equitable access to diagnosis and treatment, as well as the technological devices that support self-management. Speakers: Michael Matheson MSP, Cabinet Secretary for NHS Recovery, Health and Social Care Dr Marion Slater, Consultant Physician and Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh Craig Spalding, Chief Executive Officer of Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans John Kinnear, National Director, Diabetes Scotland Chaired by: Kirsteen Paterson, Journalist, Holyrood Magazine

Fringe Meetings

Monday 16 October EARLY AFTERNOON PREMIER FRINGE EVENT

Monday 16 October Conference Suite 1A, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 12h30 - 13h30

Unlocking Scotland’s Offshore Wind Opportunity Address the climate crisis. Deliver a huge economic boost to Scotland. Secure our energy security future. These are the key topics that SSE Renewables are delivering on with the development and construction of the UKs largest offshore wind pipeline. However decarbonising our electricity system is not a straightforward task. This must be done in a considered, sustainable way. SSE Renewables, headquartered in Perth, are leading the way in the development of offshore wind with over 20 years’ experience in this field. Join Gillian Martin MSP, Minister for Energy and Kate Wallace Lockhart, SSE Renewables Head of Sustainability to discuss the most critical issue of our lifetime and crucially, what steps do Government and Industry need to take to jointly deliver on solving the climate crisis and unlocking Scotland’s offshore wind opportunity.

Fringe Meetings

Monday 16 October EARLY AFTERNOON

Monday 16 October Meeting Room 1, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 12h30 - 13h30

Monday 16 October Meeting Room 2, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 12h30 - 13h30

The Local Government Workforce: Skills shortages and workforce capacity – no longer an employer of choice?

Modern universities strengthening Scotland’s economy: skills, social enterprise and public services

APSE’s “Big Workforce Survey 2023” provides data which tracks and analyses changes in the local government workforce, exploring issues such as pay, recruitment and retention and issues across frontline services. From HGV driver shortages, which impact on refuse and highways services, through to loss of local council catering and cleaning staff to the private hospitality industry we look at the trends to understand the issues facing councils. We also ask ‘are local councils the Cinderella’s of public services’? To join in the debate and receive the survey findings please join us at our fringe event. Speakers: Katie Hagmann, COSLA Resources Spokesperson Louise Melville, Principal Advisor, APSE Chaired by: Cllr Lynne Short, Chair of APSE Scotland and elected member in Dundee City Council

This event will explore the crucial role played by modern universities in Scotland, delivering the critical skills and workforce necessary for a strong economy. Speakers: Richard Lochhead MSP, Minister for Small Business, Innovation, Tourism and Trade Liz Bacon, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of Abertay University Philip Whyte, Director of IPPR Scotland Johnny Mone, Head of Business Innovation, University of the West of Scotland Chaired by: Rachel Hewitt, Chief Executive MillionPlus

Monday 16 October Meeting Room 3, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 12h30 - 13h30

Monday 16 October Meeting Room 4, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 12h30 - 13h30

A Timetable for Change: Education and Skills in Scotland

Death is no equaliser

The Scottish Government is embarking on a once in a generation reform of Scotland’s education and skills system to ensure that it is fit for purpose to meet our future skills needs. Panellists from Robert Gordon University (RGU) and North East Scotland College (NESCol) will offer their expert insights on the reforms, what they mean for learners, employers, institutions, the region and Scotland. The session will also discuss how RGU and NESCol are working in partnership and supporting the region by equipping learners with the education and skills they need to thrive now and into the future. Speakers: Professor Steve Olivier, Principal and Vice-Chancellor, Robert Gordon University Neil Cowie, Principal and Chief Executive, North East Scotland College

Poverty, energy, housing, carers. Join Marie Curie and the Poverty Alliance to discuss the profound impact inequity in these areas can have on end of life experience. How can we tackle them to ensure that they do not act as a barrier to choice at the end of life? We are delighted that this fringe will be chaired by Chair of the Social Justice and Social Security Committee Collette Stevenson, and that Minister for Public Health Jenni Minto will join our conversation. Speakers: Collette Stevenson MSP Jenni Minto MSP, Minister for Public Health and Women’s Health Peter Kelly, Director, Poverty Alliance Ellie Wagstaff, Marie Curie

Donna Morrison, Student Midwife, Robert Gordon University Anum Qaisar MP Chaired by: Fergus Mutch, Managing Partner, True North

Fringe Meetings

Monday 16 October EARLY AFTERNOON

Scotland

Monday 16 October Meeting Room 5, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 12h30 - 13h30

Monday 16 October Meeting Room 6, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 12h30 - 13h30

What would the constitution of an independent Scotland look like?

Making Scotland’s Communities Independent: What is the best route to powerful Communities?

If Scotland became independent, the nation would face some fundamental questions about the operation of its political system. It would need a new constitution; which the Scottish government proposes should be a written one, enshrining key rights and principles. And it would need to decide whether to re-join the EU, in line with the SNP’s position, with implications for the operation of the government, the role of the courts and parliamentary scrutiny..

Lesley Riddoch, Broadcaster, Journalist and Author

A vibrant and powerful local democracy creates the basis for building strong communities. From the pandemic to the cost-of-living crisis people have shown they are willing to devote time and care to those in need. When citizens come together to make decisions about the place they know best, Scotland’s towns, cities and villages can flourish. With the relaunch of the Democracy Matters consultation, Scots are being asked where power should lie, feeding into a Local Democracy Bill which is expected to make its way through this parliament. This presents a huge opportunity to make lasting change. Come to this fringe meeting to discuss and debate how we can transform our local democracy to meet the challenges of the 21st Century.

Jill Rutter, Senior Fellow at the Institute for Government & UK in a Changing Europe

Speakers:

Jess Sargeant, Associate Director at the Institute for Government

Tom Arthur MSP, Minister for Community Wealth and Public Finance

Speakers: Jamie Hepburn, MSP, Minister for Independence Professor Anand Menon, Director of UK in a Changing Europe

Amanda Burgauer, Common Weal Pauline Smith, Development Trusts Association Scotland Chaired by: Willie Sullivan, ERS Scotland

Monday 16 October Meeting Room 7, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 12h30 - 13h30

Monday 16 October Meeting Room 8, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 12h30 - 13h30

Sustainable Scotch: How can Scotland’s whisky industry help the country’s journey to net zero?

The Role of Employability and Fair Work in Promoting and Sustaining a Wellbeing Economy

As the UK’s leading food and drink export, the whisky industry can lead the way in protecting our rural environment, preserving resources, and tackling climate change. Scotch distilled today may not be sold for another 25 years or more, so long-term sustainability matters today. Chivas Brothers, rooted in Scotland’s varied and vibrant communities, aims to reach net zero distillation by 2026 and be net zero in all operations by 2030 at the latest. Join us to find out how we are sharing our knowledge to support Scotland’s journey to net zero.

This event brings together frontline organisations, policymakers and employer representatives to discuss the role the employability sector can play in helping to support the Scottish Government to achieve shared objectives. We will consider how to tackle Scotland’s inactivity challenge, create labour market participation for more people, including parents and individuals with disabilities, and upskill those in- and out-of-work to create sustained growth for a more inclusive and prosperous nation.

Speakers:

Ronald Daalmans, Environmental Sustainability Manager, Chivas Brothers

Alistair Kerr, BASE Scotland

Austen Toone, Lead Relationship Manager, SSE.

David Linden MP

Kirsty Blackman MP

Susan Paterson, Fedcap

Chaired by: Adele Merson, Political Editor, The Press and Journal

Chaired by: Elizabeth Taylor, Employment Related Services Association

Clare Reid, SCDI

Fringe Meetings

Monday 16 October EARLY AFTERNOON

Monday 16 October Conference Suite 3, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 12h30 - 13h30

Monday 16 October Conference Suite 4, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 12h30 - 13h30

What’s next for children and young people’s mental health?

How does health drive prosperity?

Join SAMH, in its centenary year, for a discussion on supporting children and young people’s mental health in Scotland. Maree Todd MSP, Minister for Social Care, Mental Wellbeing and Sport, will be in conversation with Jo Anderson, Executive Director of Influence and Change at SAMH, and Beth Wallace, local radio DJ and SAMH supporter. From exam stress to climate anxiety, how do we best support our young people and what change do we need to see?

Better health is the medicine needed for our economic difficulties. IPPR have set the mission that the UK should aim to be the world’s healthiest country in three decades time. This event will explore what’s required at a UK-level and where the Scottish Government could take further action within devolved powers to get us there, and ensure Scotland reaps the social and economic benefits of a healthier and more prosperous population. Speakers:

Speakers:

Beth Wallace, Radio DJ and SAMH supporter

Michael Matheson MSP, Cabinet Secretary for NHS Recovery, Health and Social Care

Jo Anderson, Executive Director of Influence and Change at SAMH

Chris Thomas, Head of the Commission on Health and Prosperity, IPPR;

Maree Todd MSP, Minister for Social Care, Mental Wellbeing and Sport

Other speakers tbc

Fringe Meetings

Monday 16 October LATE AFTERNOON

Monday 16 October Meeting Room 1, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 16h30 - 17h30

Monday 16 October Meeting Room 2, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 16h30 - 17h30

How to End the Motherhood Penalty

How UK lottery policy needs to change to support charity fundraising

We aim to explore a wide range of topics concerning the support and rights of parents in our society; from parental leave reform to childcare and flexible working, to ensuring access to justice for cases of pregnancy and maternity discrimination. The event will feature a lively panel discussion followed by a Q&A session, where we will delve into the crucial aspects that parents need to witness from the next government. Speakers: Natalie Don, MSP, Minister for Children, Young People and Keeping the Promise

Join People’s Postcode Lottery, leading SNP politicians and CEOs from major charities as they discuss how current UK legislation is holding back much needed funding for good causes across Scotland, and what can be done to fix it. Speakers: Shirley-Anne Somerville MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Patricia Gibson MP, Shadow SNP Spokesperson Environment, Farming, Agriculture and Rural Affairs

Iona Brown, Policy and Parliamentary Manager, Close The Gap Greg Borthwick, Family Worker, Dads Rock

Fringe Meetings

Monday 16 October LATE AFTERNOON

Monday 16 October Meeting Room 4, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 16h30 - 17h30

Monday 16 October Meeting Room 5, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 16h30 - 17h30

Healthy Lives in a Wellbeing Economy Everyone Can Swim Delivering a Wellbeing Economy has been identified as a key priority by the Scottish Government. A healthy population is the foundation of such an economy that is designed to deliver good lives for all on a healthy planet. However, the current design of our economy is a barrier to Scotland’s health, creating inequalities in wealth, and promoting the consumption of health harming products like alcohol, tobacco and unhealthy food and drinks. Join us for a discussion of the role that health has to play in a Wellbeing Economy and how we could redesign our economy to put health at its centre.

Scottish Swimming’s vision is ‘everyone can swim’. This reception is an opportunity to hear from triple Olympian Hannah Miley MBE about her journey from learning to swim through to being a woman at the top of her sport, and the importance of community swimming pools in providing safe and fun places for everyone to swim both now and in the future. We explore why we need to keep pools open for the nation’s health and well-being, for the safety of young people, and as community lifelines. Speaker:

Speakers:

Maree Todd MSP, Minister for Social Care, Mental Wellbeing and Sport

Jenni Minto MSP, Minister for Public Health and Women’s Health

Hannah Miley MBE - Triple Olympian, World Champion

Jonathan Roden - Policy and Public Affairs Manager, BHF Scotland Lukas Bunse - Policy and Engagement Lead, Wellbeing Economy Alliance Scotland

Monday 16 October Meeting Room 6, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 16h30 - 17h30

Monday 16 October Meeting Room 7, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 16h30 - 17h30

Meeting Scotland’s child poverty target during taxing times: what’s needed next?

Realising Scotland’s hydrogen potential: how hydrogen can be a key enabler of Just Transition to net zero

Scottish Government action is reducing child poverty. Up to 50 000 children are set to be lifted out of poverty by the Scottish child payment alone. Holyrood tax and benefit policies are boosting low-income family incomes by around £2,000 a year compared to those in England and Wales. Nevertheless, current policies are still insufficient to meet statutory child poverty targets. Far too many families are still struggling to meet even their most basic needs. This fringe will discuss what’s now needed to meet Scotland’s child poverty targets, and the role tax policy must play in harnessing the resources required. Speakers: Shona Robison MSP, Deputy First Minister of Scotland

Join SGN and guests to discuss how Hydrogen can help Scotland unlock its potential to drive forward decarbonisation of industry and home heating. The panel will discuss how projects such as H100 Fife and LTS Futures are putting Scotland on the net-zero world stage, protecting and creating thousands of jobs, as well as ensuring safe and secure energy sources for years to come. Speakers: Anthony Green - Future of Energy Director - SGN Neil Gray MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Wellbeing Economy, Fair Work and Energy And others TBC

John Dickie, Director of Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG) in Scotland, Lewis Ryder-Jones, Advocacy Adviser, Oxfam Scotland Chaired by: Satwat Rehman, Chief Executive, One Parent Families Scotland

Fringe Meetings

Monday 16 October LATE AFTERNOON

Monday 16 October Meeting Room 8, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 16h30 - 17h30

Monday 16 October Conference Suite 3, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 16h30 - 17h30

The Future of Farming

Transforming local economies through Community Wealth Building: A just transition for all

Food production and food security are key global issues and with high input costs, supply chain issues and labour shortages, farmers and crofters are making decisions on how to make ends meet to sustain food production in Scotland. These businesses are key to rural communities using local supply chain companies and providing and supporting thousands of jobs. With the Agriculture Bill going through the Scottish Parliament, this event will discuss how the new system of support needs to put agricultural production at the heart of future policy - enabling the production of sustainable, high-quality food and also help to tackle climate change and enhance biodiversity. Speakers: Martin Kennedy, President NFU Scotland Jonnie Hall, Director of Policy NFU Scotland

The Scottish Government has taken meaningful steps to champion Community Wealth Building and has also set an ambitious target of achieving a just transition to net zero by 2045. Decarbonising Scotland’s economy as quickly as possible is vital, but how we do so – and who benefits – matters. Scaling up Community Wealth Building can be a powerful catalyst for delivering a just transition to net zero at a local level by ensuring that the wealth created by the transition to net zero is retained and recirculated locally. This session will explore how Scotland can use Community Wealth Building to deliver a just transition, harnessing the potential of the upcoming Community Wealth Building Act. Speakers: Tom Arthur, Minister for Community Wealth and Public Finance Martin Avila, Chief Executive of CEIS Ellen Forson, Leader of Clackmannanshire Council Miriam Brett, Co-director at Future Economy Scotland Chaired by: Sarah Longlands, Chief Executive of CLES

Monday 16 October Conference Suite 4, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 16h30 - 17h30

How do we make the Deposit Return Scheme a success story for the environment & for Scotland? Earlier this year, the Scottish Government confirmed that its deposit return scheme (DRS) would be delayed until at least October 2025. This decision followed apprehension from the UK Government about the impact of the scheme on the UK internal market, alongside concerns from industry about both the scheme’s rollout and costs. It is widely acknowledged that the deposit return schemes will come with environmental benefits for Scotland. As work continues ahead of the scheme’s 2025 introduction, stakeholders must be engaged in the development process. Join us as we consider how Scotland can deliver a successful DRS scheme, addressing previous concerns whilst working alongside equivalent UK schemes. Speakers: Ivan McKee MSP, former Minister for Business, Trade, Tourism and Enterprise Collette Stevenson MSP, SNP Jim Fox, Head of Public Affairs GB, Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Cllr Ruairi Kelly, City Convener for Neighbourhood Services and Assets, Glasgow City Council Chaired by: Mandy Rhodes, Managing Director, Holyrood Communications and Editor, Holyrood Magazine

Receptions

Monday 16 October EVENING

Channel 4 Reception Monday 16th October 2023 Meeting Room 3 First Floor, The Event Complex Aberdeen 17h30 - 19h00

Monday 16th October 2023 Conference Suite 1C, First Floor, The Event Complex Aberdeen 17h45 - 19h15

Reception Hosted by Channel 4

SNP Local Government Reception Kindly sponsored by SGN

INVITATION ONLY

ALL SNP COUNCILLORS WELCOME

Monday 16th October 2023 Conference Suite 1A, First Floor, The Event Complex Aberdeen 18h00 - 19h30

Monday 16th October 2023 Conference Suite 1B, First Floor, The Event Complex Aberdeen 18h30 - 20h00

Drinks Reception Hosted by HM Government of Gibraltar

SNP Holyrood Reception Kindly sponsored by Scottish Power

INVITATION ONLY

ALL MSPs AND THEIR STAFF TEAMS WELCOME

Fringe Meetings

Tuesday 17 October MORNING

Tuesday 17 October Conference Suite 4, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 09h00 - 10h00

Tuesday 17 October Meeting Room 1, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 09h15 - 10h15

Restoring Consumer Trust in Energy Markets for a Just Transition

Scotland’s Changing World of Work

The combined impact of global inflation and the conflict in Ukraine has led to soaring energy prices and decreased consumer trust across Scotland. Evidence from the Trust Alliance Group shows only 53% of consumers trust their energy supplier to treat them fairly. With the Climate Change Committee estimating 60% of emissions reductions must come from societal change, how do we restore trust in energy markets to encourage greener consumer energy habits? Join our panel session as we explore the measures that can be taken to help restore public trust in energy markets and deliver a Just Transition in Scotland. Speakers:

A private roundtable event to discuss the changing world of work in Scotland. How does the Fair Work agenda adapt to the rapidly changing world of work? How can employers, unions and government ensure workers have the skills they need to thrive in a changing world of work? If you would like to attend please email matt@unions21.org Speakers: Neil Gray MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Fair Work and Culture Becky Wright, Director, Unions 21 INVITATION ONLY

Ed Dodman, Business Unit Director & Chief Ombudsman, Energy Ombudsman Dave Doogan MP, Shadow SNP Spokesperson (Energy Security and Net Zero). Tom Arthur MSP, Minister for Community Wealth and Public Finance Morgan Vine, Head of Policy and Influencing, Independent Age Chaired by: Louise Wilson, Political Editor, Holyrood Magazine

Fringe Meetings

Tuesday 17 October MORNING

Tuesday 17 October Meeting Room 2, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 09h15 - 10h15

Tuesday 17 October Meeting Room 3, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 09h15 - 10h15

SNP Member Support Convener Surgery

Working together to support people seeking safety in Scotland

Member support convener, Alexander Belic, and an HQ representative will be available for office bearers to drop in and discuss what’s bothering them.

Scotland has a long history of welcoming refugees and asylum seekers. Come and join the British Red Cross, Scottish Refugee Council and VOICES Network, alongside Minister for Equalities, Migration and Refugees Emma Roddick MSP, for a discussion on how we can learn from those with experience of the system to renew our commitment to those seeking protection in the face of new challenges.

Chaired by: Cllr Alexander Belic, Member Support Convener SNP MEMBERS ONLY

Speakers: Rob Murray, Director for Scotland, British Red Cross Gary Christie, Scottish Refugee Council Anne Duncan, VOICES Network Ambassador Emma Roddick MSP, Minister for Equalities, Migration and Refugees

Fringe Meetings

Tuesday 17 October MORNING

Tuesday 17 October Meeting Room 4, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 09h15 - 10h15

Tuesday 17 October Meeting Room 5, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 09h15 - 10h15

Minimum Income Guarantee:

The Scottish Cluster: The Role of CCUS in Decarbonising Scotland

Short-term action towards a long-term ambition

In our wealthy nation, it’s unjust that so many people don’t have adequate incomes for a dignified life. The Scottish Government has committed to a Minimum Income Guarantee an income floor below which people would not be allowed to fall. It’s a simple, but potentially transformative idea, that would help give everyone a secure foundation to thrive and develop their potential. Join us to explore the steps we can take together now across adequate incomes; public services; and fair work that would build a Minimum Income Guarantee that will bring us closer to a Scotland free from poverty.

Carbon Capture, Utilisation & Storage, (CCUS) is essential to decarbonising the power, manufacturing, and industrial sectors across Scotland. How can CCUS protect and develop Scotland’s industries, jobs and local economies, while supporting a just transition and driving inward investment? Join us to find out! Speakers: TBC

Speakers: Casey Smith - IPPR Scotland Researcher; Ruth Boyle - Policy and Campaigns Manager, Poverty Alliance; Emma Jackson - Scotland Director, Christians Against Poverty; Shirley-Anne Somerville MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice

Fringe Meetings

Tuesday 17 October MORNING

Tuesday 17 October Meeting Room 6, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 09h15 - 10h15

Tuesday 17 October Meeting Room 7, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 09h15 - 10h15

Indy.....Climate....Environment

Big Polluters vs Scotland: an Investigation

The SNP Climate and Environment Group is now in its third year. This Group is for everyone who wants to see great policy development on these vital topics and related issues like land reform, just transition and energy. The Group meets monthly on Zoom, with people joining from all across the country. We seek to inform and support party members, especially branch Climate and Environment Officers, and make sure of a fairer, greener future Everyone welcome.

Big business is constantly hunting for ways to water down the efforts of our elected officials to address challenges like the climate crisis. Join Friends of the Earth Scotland and investigative reporter Rachel Tansey (the Ferret) as we uncover the hidden lobbying inside Westminster, the Scottish Parliament and Scottish Government that’s designed to undermine protection of Scotland’s environment. We’ll also update on how billions of pounds of public money is tied up in big polluters, slowing Scotland’s efforts to transition, and exploring how we can put power back in the hands of party members, elected officials, and the Scottish people. Speakers: Rachel Tansey (the Ferret) Ric Lander (Friends of the Earth Scotland) Sally Clark (Friends of the Earth Scotland)

Tuesday 17 October Conference Suite 3, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 09h15 - 10h15

Delivering a net zero future where clean energy powers our lives A net zero future means a better future for Scotland - one where communities, the natural environment and our energy systems thrive, at the lowest cost to consumers. To get there, governments must work closely with the renewables industry to unlock growth in the sector and the supply chains that underpin them. Join EDF Renewables and Scottish Renewables in conversation about the vast net zero opportunity for Scotland’s economy and communities, and how Scotland’s renewables sector can get us there. Speakers: Nick Sharpe - Director of Communications and Strategy, Scottish Renewables Darren Cuming - Head of Development, EDF Renewables Ruth Shewan - External Affairs Manager Scotland, EDF Renewables Alasdair Allan MSP

Fringe Meetings

Tuesday 17 October EARLY AFTERNOON

Tuesday 17 October Meeting Room 1, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 12h30 - 13h30

Tuesday 17 October Meeting Room 2, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 12h30 - 13h30

Reforming the criminal justice system:

Time for Change – Improving Women’s Representation in Local Government

Join the Law Society of Scotland as we discuss the importance of the Victims, Witnesses, and Justice Reform (Scotland) Bill and how we get justice reforms right. Speakers: Join the Law Society of Scotland President, Chief Executive, SNPs and academics as we discuss these important topics

Women’s representation in Scotland’s councils remains stubbornly low at around a third of councillors, and securing sustainable progress continues at a glacial pace. All institutions and individuals with the power to affect change must take action now to create the conditions that will allow women in all their diversity to thrive in local politics if we are to achieve gender balanced representation at the next local elections in 2027. Join Engender and Elect Her for a discussion on what changes are needed, and how political parties can play a leading role in achieving gender balance in our councils. Panellists: Emma Roddick MSP, Minister for Equalities, Migration and Refugees; Cllr Fatima Joji Cllr Katie Hagmann Chaired by: Catherine Murphy, Executive Director, Engender

JAMIE JAUNCEY Tuesday 17 October Meeting Room 3, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 12h30 - 13h30

Tuesday 17 October Meeting Room 4, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 12h30 - 13h30

Don Roberto: the Adventure of Being Cunninghame Graham

The future of Scotland’s police service and justice system

John Swinney MSP in conversation with Jamie Jauncey, author of a major new biography of SNP Founding President, RB Cunninghame Graham. Jamie is Don Roberto’s great-great-nephew. His book sheds new light on the extraordinary life of the writer, horseman, adventurer, co-founder with Keir Hardie of the Scottish Labour Party, and passionate, lifelong advocate of Scotland’s right to self-determination.

Ten years on from the creation of Police Scotland, what does the future hold for the national force? With a raft of new legislation on the way, what does a reformed justice system in Scotland look like? Come and hear first-hand from our speakers as we answer these questions and more.

Speakers: John Swinney MSP Chaired by: Jamie Jauncey

Speakers: Elena Whitham MSP, Minister for Drugs and Alcohol Policy Audrey Nicoll MSP, Convener, Criminal Justice Committee David Kennedy, General Secretary, Scottish Police Federation Lorna Cunningham, Deputy General Secretary, Scottish Police Federation

Fringe Meetings

Tuesday 17 October EARLY AFTERNOON

Tuesday 17 October Meeting Room 5, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 12h30 - 13h30

Tuesday 17 October Meeting Room 6, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 12h30 - 13h30

Tackling poverty and ending Is delivering gigabit-capable homelessness: delivering Scotland’s broadband to rural Scotland the key social homes to fast-tracking the tech revolution? Join SFHA and Child Poverty Action Group to discuss how delivering social homes is crucial to the First Minister’s three missions of tackling child poverty, building a fair and green economy, and improving public services. Speakers will explore what’s needed to achieve the FM’s missions and why there are few better anti-poverty and pro-growth measures than delivering the social homes Scotland needs. Speakers: Sally Thomas, CEO, Scottish Federation of Housing Associations Craig Stirrat, CEO, Grampian Housing Association John Dickie, Director, Child Poverty Action Group in Scotland

Full fibre broadband is vital to enable rural businesses to take part in the tech and AI revolution. Join our panel to hear how GoFibre – a Scottish independent builder and provider of full fibre connectivity - is bridging the digital divide with fast, reliable and gigabit-capable broadband across Scotland’s rural and harder to reach communities. Our panel will discuss how broadband infrastructure equipped for a digital future will lead to increased innovation and economic investment for rural communities creating a more inclusive technological landscape. Speakers: Richard Lochhead MSP, Minister for Small Business, Innovation and Trade, Neil Congahan, GoFibre, Chief Executive Officer Elizabeth Pirrie, Chief Executive Officer, AccelerateHER Chaired by: Sam Calvert, GoFibre, Chief Revenue Officer

Tuesday 17 October Meeting Room 7, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 12h30 - 13h30

Tuesday 17 October Meeting Room 8, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 12h30 - 13h30

A fairer later life: How do we address Ukraine and the global fight against pensioner poverty? Imperialism and Authoritarianism Independent Age is the national charity for older people in financial hardship. We believe no one should experience poverty in later life. For many, their later years are far from what they imagined. Living on a low, fixed income, having little or no savings and managing rising costs is the reality for 1 in 7 pensioners in poverty here in Scotland. With this number up 25% in the past decade, join us for a discussion on what can be done to halt and reverse this harmful trend.

Another Europe is Possible joins forces with SNP Socialists and Ukraine Solidarity Campaign Scotland with eyewitness reports from Ukraine.

Speakers:

Jen Stout (independent journalist author of Night Train to Odessa) eyewitness reporter on Russia’s human rights violations

Shirley-Anne Somerville MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice Morgan Vine, Independent Age

Speakers: Dr Taras Fedirko of Glasgow University & Ukraine Solidarity Campaign on the trade union and social movement resistance to Russian aggression Peter Cooper, Ukraine Solidarity Campaign Scotland

Alena Ivanova (AEIP) on the impact on Eastern European countries Cllr Graham Campbell (Ukraine Solidarity Campaign Scotland/ SNP Socialists Co-Convener)

Fringe Meetings

Tuesday 17 October EARLY AFTERNOON

Tuesday 17 October Conference Suite 3, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 12h30 - 13h30

Tuesday 17 October Conference Suite 4, First Floor The Event Complex Aberdeen 12h30 - 13h30

The Right To Rehab – A Human Rights Approach to Scotland’s next Health Reform

A Health and Care Workforce Fit for the Future

Rehab helps people live life to the full, but too many people don’t get access to the services they need. Proposals for a Human Rights Bill could hold the solution. Hear from leading charities, health bodies and service users about how rehab changes lives, why there is no right to health without the right to rehab, and how including rehab in the proposed Human Rights Bill could be Scotland’s next major health reform. Speakers: Emma Harper MSP Joanne Graham, Chest Heart and Stroke Scotland Donna Wynne, Chartered Society of Physiotherapy Gareth Brown, Asthma and Lung UK Katie MacGregor, Stroke Association

Last year, the Scottish Government published its national workforce strategy for health and social care, outlining how it would achieve recovery, growth and transformation. Despite this, over the past year we have seen unions balloting members on strike action, high vacancy rates and a cost-of-living crisis placing an additional financial burden on many. With this in mind, our Health Hub will focus on steps that need to be taken to create a workforce fit for the future. Join RCN Scotland, RPS Scotland and CSP Scotland as we explore how we can expand the workforce, support students through training, and best utilise our skills mix. Speakers: Jenni Minto MSP, Minister for Public Health and Women’s Health Kenryck Lloyd-Jones, Public Affairs and Policy Manager for Scotland, Chartered Society of Physiotherapy Eileen Mckenna, Scotland Associate Director, Royal College of Nursing Laura Wilson, Director for Scotland at Royal Pharmaceutical Society Chaired by: Chris Marshall, Deputy Editor, Holyrood Magazine

We’re on a faster journey to a greener future. At ScottishPower, speeding up the journey to net zero is at the heart of everything we do. We’re investing £10 billion in the UK up to 2025 – £8m every working day – doubling our renewable generation capacity and modernising our electricity network to support green transport and heating. We’re building new solar, wind, battery and green hydrogen infrastructure – ready for the increasing demand for more green, secure and affordable energy. And we’ve created over 1,000 new green jobs this year to help us get there quicker.

Internal Elections

Internal Elections INTERNAL ELECTIONS Delegates get a vote for the election of office bearers and committees. All delegates with an email address on the membership system will be sent a link containing their voting code when Conference opens at 10h30 on Sunday, allowing them to vote using their own devices. For delegates unable to vote electronically during Conference, printed ballot papers can be issued from Headquarters desk once the ballot is open. A delegate credentials card and a current membership card are needed for papers to be issued. Once issued, ballot papers are the responsibility of the delegate. Electronic ballot papers will contain a short statement from each candidate against their name. There will also be links to an electronic flyer if the candidate has submitted one. Paper copies of all of the electronic flyers will also be available for reading at the HQ desk and an area has been set aside for any candidates to leave physical flyers for delegates to read. Delegates can complete each part of the electronic ballot paper separately and go back to the voting process later, provided that all sections the delegate wishes to complete are submitted by the close of voting. Delegates can vote in every election which appears for them on the voting website or physical ballot paper. The ballot paper for Regional Members of NEC, the Policy Development Committee and the Conferences Committee may include two lists. When this is the case, the first one is for the ‘all-female’ list. The second one is for the ‘open list’. The ‘all-female’ list will be counted first. Candidates who are not elected in the ‘all-female’ list may be elected in the ‘open list’ if they are included in both contests. Any candidate elected on the ‘all-female’ list who is also on the ‘open list’ will be removed before that list is counted. In addition, any ballot paper with a first preference for a candidate elected on the ‘all-female’ list becomes a ballot paper with a first preference vote for the next preference candidate who has not been elected. There will be vacant seats on the NEC and on the Policy Development Committee after these elections. The NEC will make arrangements to fill those posts after Conference. Voting closes at 10h30 on Tuesday. At that time, the electronic balloting system will stop accepting any more votes and Headquarters desk will cease accepting ballot papers. The results for at least the National Office Bearer and NEC positions are expected to be announced before the close of conference. A full break-down of the results will be posted on the member’s hub as soon as they are available.

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SS! By pub and to c lic demand lose the event, T HE GRA HAM BROWN B AND will pe rfo extende rm an d set

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Nominations

Nominations 2023 National Office Bearers PRESIDENT Graeme McCormick

Helensburgh

Michael Russell

Strachur

NATIONAL TREASURER Stuart McDonald

Kirkintilloch

Douglas Thomson

Newington & Southside

NATIONAL SECRETARY David Birkett

Peterhead

Lorna Finn

Glasgow Provan

Duncan Mitchell

Dundee Pitkerro

Kelly Parry

Bonnyrigg & Loanhead

ORGANISATION CONVENER Jen Layden

Glasgow Shettleston

UNOPPOSED

LOCAL GOVERNMENT CONVENER John Alexander

Dundee City West

POLICY DEVELOPMENT CONVENER

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Marco Biagi

Braidburn

Andrew Ewen

Leith Walk

Chris Hanlon

West Fife & Coastal Villages

Mhairi Love

Glasgow Provan

UNOPPOSED

MEMBER SUPPORT CONVENER Alexander Belic

Southside Central

Adrian Doherty

Linwood & Craigends

Norman MacLeod

Crossmyloof

WOMEN’S CONVENER Katie Hagmann

Newton Stewart

UNOPPPOSED

EQUALITIES CONVENER Summer Chen

Kirkintilloch

Amber Roberts

Edinburgh Western

BAME CONVENER Shelly-Ann Brown

Leith

Fyeza Ikhlaq

Glasgow Anniesland

DISABLED MEMBERS’ CONVENER Jonathan McColl

Vale of Leven

Andy Stuart

Westhill, Kintore, Blackburn

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Nominations 2023 National Committees ORDINARY MEMBER OF THE NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE (Two Parliamentarians to be elected) Chris Law

Dundee City West

UNOPPOSED

Alison Thewliss

Glasgow Shettleston

UNOPPOSED

REGIONAL MEMBER OF THE NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

(ONE to be elected from an ALL-FEMALE list, and ONE to be elected from an OPEN list in each of the eight Scottish Parliament regions) CENTRAL SCOTLAND ALL-FEMALE No nominations OPEN John Haston

Grangemouth

GLASGOW ALL-FEMALE Christina Cannon

Glasgow Maryhill & Springburn

Fyeza Ikhlaq

Glasgow Anniesland

OPEN

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Christina Cannon

Glasgow Maryhill & Springburn

Qasim Hanif

Southside Central

Fyeza Ikhlaq

Glasgow Anniesland

Alex Kerr

Glasgow Shettleston

Norman MacLeod

Crossmyloof

Henry Mclaren

Glasgow Maryhill & Springburn

UNOPPOSED

HIGHLANDS & ISLANDS ALL-FEMALE Frances Murray

Lewis & Harris

UNOPPOSED

OPEN Ian Cockburn

Wester Ross

Ewan Hamilton

Holy Loch District

Munro Ross

Inverness City

Christopher Sagan

Isle of Bute

LOTHIAN ALL-FEMALE Sinéad Collins

Newington & Southside

Amber Roberts

Edinburgh Western

OPEN Callum Anderson

Bonnyrigg & Loanhead

Marco Biagi

Braidburn

Greg McCarra

Fauldhouse & Breich Valley

Silas McGilvray

Newington & Southside

Timothy Rideout

Dalkeith & District

Amber Roberts

Edinburgh Western

MID SCOTLAND & FIFE ALL-FEMALE No nominations OPEN Derek Glen

West Fife & Coastal Villages

Ian Massie

Perth St Johnstoun

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Nominations 2023 NORTH EAST SCOTLAND ALL-FEMALE Siobhan Tolland

Dundee City West

UNOPPOSED

OPEN David Birkett

Peterhead

Jenny McEwens

Ellon & District

Maureen Watt

Aberdeen South & North Kincardine

SOUTH SCOTLAND ALL-FEMALE Carol Evans

Annandale & Eskdale

Ann Ferguson

West Dumfries

Lyn Jardine

Dunbar

OPEN Marshall Douglas

Tweeddale

Ann Ferguson

West Dumfries

Lyn Jardine

Dunbar

WEST SCOTLAND ALL-FEMALE Summer Chen

Kirkintilloch

OPEN

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Michael Gibbons

Paisley Burgh

Shaun MacAulay

Cunninghame South

Graeme McCormick

Helensburgh

UNOPPOSED

POLICY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE

(ONE to be elected from an ALL-FEMALE list, ONE to be elected from an OPEN list in each of the eight Scottish Parliament regions, and ONE to be elected from Outwith Scotland)

CENTRAL SCOTLAND ALL-FEMALE No nominations OPEN No nominations

GLASGOW All-FEMALE Shazia Babar

Pollokshaws East

Laura Doherty

Glasgow Shettleston

OPEN Shazia Babar

Pollokshaws East

Alexander Belic

Southside Central

Graham Campbell

Glasgow Provan

Laura Doherty

Glasgow Shettleston

Norman MacLeod

Crossmyloof

HIGHLANDS & ISLANDS ALL-FEMALE No nominations OPEN Peter Cairns

Dingwall & District

Christopher Sagan

Isle of Bute

Iain Wentworth

Inverness City

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Nominations 2023 LOTHIAN ALL-FEMALE No nominations OPEN Callum Cox

Fauldhouse & Breich Valley

Arthur Finlay

Leith

MID SCOTLAND & FIFE ALL-FEMALE No nominations OPEN Chris Hanlon

West Fife & Coastal Villages

UNOPPOSED

West Garioch

UNOPPOSED

NORTH EAST SCOTLAND ALL-FEMALE Lynne Copland OPEN Andy Oliver

Stonehaven & The Mearns

Alan Petrie

Peterhead

SOUTH SCOTLAND ALL-FEMALE Lyn Jardine

Dunbar

UNOPPOSED

Haddington

UNOPPOSED

OPEN Ewan Ritchie

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WEST SCOTLAND ALL-FEMALE Lisa-Marie Hughes

Renfrew & Gallowhill

UNOPPOSED

OPEN Ian Gallagher

Bearsden South

Jonathan McColl

Vale of Leven

Graeme McCormick

Helensburgh

OUTWITH SCOTLAND Paul Anderson

London

Zoe Dingwall

Brussels

CONFERENCES COMMITTEE ALL-FEMALE (FIVE to be elected) Shazia Babar

Pollokshields East

Christina Cannon

Glasgow Maryhill & Springburn

Sarah Cheung

Edinburgh Central

Lynne Copland

West Garioch

Laura Doherty

Glasgow Shettleston

Emma Hendrie

Glasgow Shettleston

OPEN (FIVE to be elected) Paul Anderson

London

Shazia Babar

Pollokshields East

Amjid Bashir

East Kilbride

Alexander Belic

Southside Central

Declan Blench

Glasgow Provan

Graham Campbell

Glasgow Provan

Christina Cannon

Glasgow Maryhill & Springburn

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Nominations 2023 Sarah Cheung

Edinburgh Central

Lynne Copland

West Garioch

Laura Doherty

Glasgow Shettleston

Andrew Ewen

Leith Walk

Ian Gallagher

Bearsden South

Qasim Hanif

Southside Central

Chris Hanlon

West Fife & Coastal Villages

Emma Hendrie

Glasgow Shettleston

Norman MacLeod

Crossmyloof

Jonathan McColl

Vale of Leven

Graeme McCormick

Helensburgh

Jack O’Neil

Glasgow Kelvin

Jacob Olaniya

Headquarters

Andy Oliver

Stonehaven & The Mearns

Alan Petrie

Peterhead

Munro Ross

Inverness City

Christopher Sagan

Isle of Bute

David Simpson

Falkirk South

Andy Stuart

Westhill, Kintore, Blackburn

MEMBER CONDUCT COMMITTEE NINE to be elected

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Shazia Babar

Pollokshields East

Ann Ballinger

Cumbernauld

Auxi Barrera

City of Dunfermline

David Birkett

Peterhead

Declan Blench

Glasgow Provan

Sarah Cheung

Edinburgh Central

Sinéad Collins

Newington & Southside

Allan Dorans

Ayr West

Michael Gregori

Kilmarnock South

Qasim Hanif

Southside Central

Chris Hanlon

West Fife & Coastal Villages

Emma Hendrie

Glasgow Shettleston

Anouk Kloppert

Deeside & Upper Donside

Graham Leadbitter

Elgin

Norman MacLeod

Crossmyloof

Jonathan McColl

Vale of Leven

Rob Munn

Leith Walk

Munro Ross

Inverness City

Emma Russell

Falkirk South

Christopher Sagan

Isle of Bute

Andy Stuart

Westhill, Kintore, Blackburn

Elaine Wylie

Perth St Johnstoun

CONDUCT APPEALS COMMITTEE SEVEN to be elected Amjid Bashir

East Kilbride

Roderick Campbell

Meadows Morningside

Ian Gallagher

Bearsden South

Ewan Hamilton

Holy Loch District

Dovydas Kuliešas

Govan Kingston

Lachlan McNeill

Glasgow Shettleston

Stephanie Melnick

Southside Central

Lee Mills

Dundee Pitkerro

Alan Morrison

Glasgow Anniesland

Iain Murray

Falkirk South

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F R I N G E

E V E N T S

A T

S N P

C O N F E R E N C E

2 0 2 3

Is Green Finance Scotland’s

How do we make the Deposit Return

vehicle for growth?

Scheme a success story for the

Sunday 15 October 16.30-17.30 Conference Suite 4

environment and for Scotland? Monday 16 October, 16.30– 17.30, Conference Suite 4

FOOD AND REFRESHMENTS

with S H O N A R O B I S O N M S P , Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Finance, Scottish Government

FOOD AND REFRESHMENTS

with IVAN MCKEE MSP, former Minister for Business, Trade, Tourism and Enterprise and COLLETTE STEVENSON MSP

Has Scotland’s Net Zero Strategy

Restoring Consumer Trust in Energy

left Offshore Energy adrift?

Markets for a Just Transition

Sunday 15 October 16.30-17.30 Meeting Room 1

Tuesday 17 October 09.00-10.00 Conference Suite 4

FOOD AND REFRESHMENTS

with N E I L G R A Y M S P , Cabinet Secretary for Wellbeing Economy, Fair Work and Energy, Scottish Government

Tackling the Divide: Exploring Health Inequalities in Scotland Monday 16 October 09.15-10.15 Conference Suite 4 FOOD AND REFRESHMENTS

with M I C H A E L M AT H E S O N M S P, Cabinet Secretary for NHS Recovery, Health and Social Care, Scottish Government

with T O M A R T H U R M S P , Minister for Community Wealth and Public Finance, Scottish Government, and D A V E D O O G A N M P , Shadow SNP Spokesperson (Energy Security and Net Zero)

A Health and Care Workforce Fit for the Future Tuesday 17 October 12.30-13.30 Conference Suite 4 FOOD AND REFRESHMENTS

with M I C H A E L M AT H E S O N M S P, Cabinet Secretary for NHS Recovery, Health and Social Care, Scottish Government

DRINKS RECEPTION

Biographies

Biographies Callum Anderson (Bonnyrigg & Loanhead) I’m Callum Anderson, a passionate Scottish Nationalist since 2014, actively supporting SNP through elections, grassroots activism, and committee roles in Midlothian. Contact: callum@ callumanderson.scot. Paul Anderson (London) As the current PEO of London Branch, I’m keen to utilise this experience for the Policy Development Committee. Shazia Babar (Pollokshields East) Re-Elect me. Experienced community, SNP activist, with extensive knowledge of internal party processes. Determined to be a passionate voice for equality, fairness & Independence. Ann Ballinger (Cumbernauld) Member of Conduct Committee & experience of role with a variety of organisations. Aim to ensure all members receive fair hearing while maintaining professional standards. Auxi Barrera (City of Dunfermline) I am a fair person who looks for justice regardless of who has breached the rules, am able to make a decision with blind eyes. Amjid Bashir (East Kilbride) Justice of Peace, presided over hearings/ court sessions. Am organised and hardworking professional and a team player. Alexander Belic (Southside Central) Keen on independence, the development of policy and branch mechanisms that will deliver it, and the furtherance of Scottish interests. Vote Alexander Belic #1 ONO.

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Marco Biagi (Braidburn) Councillor, former MSP and minister. Time to fix policymaking so it uses the talents of our members. Member involvement and good government should go together. David Birkett (Peterhead) Vote David Birkett #1 for National Secretary as I want to improve the membership experience for all of us with a focus on openness. Declan Blench (Glasgow Provan) Enjoying the conference agenda? Approve of member conduct decisions this year? Re-elect me to keep it up! Shelly-Ann Brown (Leith) Embracing diversity and equality, strengthens our position nationally. Your regional policy representative, convener, BAME executive, women’s and equalities officer, I’m passionate about supporting under-represented members. Peter Cairns (Dingwall & District) Current on the PDC for second year, Chair of Highlands & Islands Policy Group of the PDC. Former Councillor and Party member for 30 years. Graham Campbell (Glasgow Provan) Return this SNP Socialist to the PDC for a radical republican independent Scotland. I’ll continue to support progressive left motions from branches and affiliates. Roderick Campbell (Meadows Morningside) Former MSP for North East Fife. Convener of Edinburgh Southern CA. Advocate, Mediator and Arbitrator. Current Convener of the Conduct Appeal Committee.

Christina Cannon (Glasgow Maryhill & Springburn) Focussed on winning all seats in the General Election for independence and improving party processes. Working with members & branches.

Adrian Doherty (Linwood & Craigends) Observing the work of previous Member Support Conveners has given me a good understanding of what it takes to perform the role well; Committed Engagement.

Sarah Cheung (Edinburgh Central) When setting the Conference agenda, we must critique things from new perspectives. Vote for me and I’ll make sure I’ll bring this to the committee.

Laura Doherty (Glasgow Shettleston) Councillor for Glasgow Shettleston, Chair of Wellbeing, Equalities, Communities, Culture and Engagement Committee at Glasgow City Council and Shettleston SNP Branch Secretary.

Ian Cockburn (Wester Ross) To continue the work I have been doing within the NEC over the last three years to make the NEC more accountable to members. Sinéad Collins (Newington & Southside) I want to support members in the Lothians to have their voices heard, as well as help to improve party structures. Lynne Copland (West Garioch) Selection of resolutions is vital for party democracy. My experience in policy development & resolution submissions will ensure I fulfill this role. Callum Cox (Fauldhouse & Breich Valley) We must ensure Scotland is ready, and soon, to deliver independence; I’ll pursue policies proving we are living in the dawn of a new nation! Zoe Dingwall (Brussels) Former Adviser in the European Parliament. Experienced across a wide range of policies: International trade (Brexit). Lead negotiator for Farm2Fork Strategy & the #OneHealth approach.

Allan Dorans (Ayr West) Former senior Investigating Police Officer. Previously Personnel Executive responsible for disciplinary matters. HR qualification. JP. Current Member of Westminster Privileges and Standards Committees. Marshall Douglas (Tweeddale) Member of the NEC since 2022. SNP group Secretary Scottish Borders Council. Experienced Election Agent. Totally committed to the cause of Independence. Carol Evans (Annandale & Eskdale) I have greatly enjoyed the last year on the NEC and believe I have far more to offer our Party in a second term. Andrew Ewen (Leith Walk) Let’s empower party members to build an ambitious independence case and policy prospectus which wins the trust of voters. Continuity won’t cut it. Ann Ferguson (West Dumfries) Currently PDC delegate, Branch, CA and WCC treasurer, was secretary of the LCC and was lead organiser of the recent South of Scotland Assembly.

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Biographies Arthur Finlay (Leith) Our party and its policies should be member led. Help refocus the SNP on independence with concerted resolutions from members throughout Lothian branches and beyond. Lorna Finn (Glasgow Provan) As National Secretary, I have worked hard to effect positive change to our internal structures and processes. It’s time to finish the job. Ian Gallagher (Bearsden South) Bearsden South Councillor, former West of Scotland PDC rep and former YSI National Secretary. Experienced in delivering member driven policy development and internal procedures. Michael Gibbons (Paisley Burgh) Progressive activist since 2014. Seeking your vote to modernise our party by improving transparency, fairness and governance. For equality, Scotland and Independence. Derek Glen (West Fife & Coastal Villages) Councillor for Dunfermline Central, SNP spokesperson for Finance, Economy & Strategic Planning on Fife Council, SEStran Board Member, Organiser for Dunfermline & Dollar WCC. Michael Gregori (Kilmarnock South) I am young but also honest hard working and committed to public service and the betterment of Scotland. Ewan Hamilton (Holy Loch District) I am the Equality Officer for the Argyll and Bute Constituency Association.

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Qasim Hanif (Southside Central) We need to put Independence at the forefront of our party and policies and we representatives who work for the members. Chris Hanlon (West Fife & Coastal Villages) I will make every effort to implement party policy, all of party policy, and nothing but party policy. Members make policy. Emma Hendrie (Glasgow Shettleston) Current Member Conduct and Conferences Committee seeking reelection to both Committees. Fyeza Ikhlaq (Glasgow Anniesland) SNP is so diverse but we need systematic change. We need heard and I want to become the peoples voice and represent the BAME community. Lyn Jardine (Dunbar) Leader of SNP Group East Lothian Council. Previous constituency organiser, coordinating recent successful campaigns - committed to supporting member’s engagement across South Scotland. Alex Kerr (Glasgow Shettleston) Committed to campaigning for Scottish Independence, improving our governance and working for members across Glasgow and Rutherglen. For a more detailed report email alexkerrsnp@gmail.com. Anouk Kloppert (Deeside & Upper Donside) I am known as a hardworking trustworthy councillor, with excellent listening skills, familiar with trauma and able to approach difficult situations with impartiality and objectivity.

Dovydas Kuliešas (Govan Kingston) Organiser and PEO, Govan Kingston Branch. Fairness and evidence-based decisions first priority. Let’s make the Code of Conduct work for us all.

Jonathan McColl (Vale of Leven) I live with a hidden disability and my wife has a variable disability, often using a wheelchair. My lived experience can help me represent you.

Graham Leadbitter (Elgin) Member 26 years. Councillor 16 years, 4 as Council Leader. Office Bearer in numerous roles, Member Conduct Committee, Campaign Organiser & Election Agent.

Graeme McCormick (Helensburgh) I serve; i don’t pontificate! My focus is independence in 15 months. I’ll call out the “But” heads!

Mhairi Love (Glasgow Provan) Researcher and economics enthusiast. Mum and feminist. Equality and social justice for all. Only Love can set you free. Shaun MacAulay (Cunninghame South) Depute Leader of North Ayrshire Council & Cllr since 2017. A dedicated & experienced party activist to represent West of Scotland on NEC. Norman MacLeod (Crossmyloof) Veteran Trouble Maker, Verbose, Kind, Helpful, Friendly, Humorous, Hard working, Supportive, Trustworthy, Modest! Rules Person - let’s agree them and then stick to them! Ian Massie (Perth St Johnstoun) Experienced, committed, and effective. I will champion SNP values, provide strong leadership, and engage with grassroot YES movement for a better Scotland for all. Greg McCarra (Fauldhouse & Breich Valley) Previously NEC member as convener of the ANC and then TUG. Former councillor, lecturer, and TU president. NEC members need more courage and less acquiescence.

Stuart McDonald (Kirkintilloch) National Treasurer since April. Urgently secured new auditors and facilitated completion of audits. Keen to continue joint working to improve our finances, accountability, transparency. Jenny McEwens (Ellon & District) Fortunate to believe Scotland the best country to live in, but could be still better, I would like to help others to believe the same. Silas McGilvray (Newington & Southside) I hope to represent Lothians on the NEC to ensure we’re a party with good governance that will work more effectively to advance Scottish independence. Henry Mclaren (Glasgow Maryhill & Springburn) Since 1978 in the SNP I’ve helped in loads of campaigns, I believe in time Scotland will be a world leader as an independent country. Lachlan McNeill (Glasgow Shettleston) Advocate (Retired). Convener SNP Glasgow Shettleston CB. First Convener of Disciplinary Committee under the 2004 Constitution.

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Biographies Stephanie Melnick (Southside Central) Good at logical evidence-based decision making. Important that all members feel welcome. Past experience as office bearer in 4 affiliates and 3 branches. Lee Mills (Dundee Pitkerro) Vote Lee for the SNP. Putting the party in Scottish National Party :-). Duncan Mitchell (Dundee Pitkerro) I would really like to have an opportunity to do this as it’s something I’d really like to do. Alan Morrison (Glasgow Anniesland) I have been an active party member since 2014. I have held a number of branch roles and represented my branch regionally. Rob Munn (Leith Walk) Independence campaigner. SNP organiser. Former councillor. Conduct and discipline within the party is paramount. Iain Murray (Falkirk South) I have working experience of disciplinary hearings, assessing and maintaining standards combined with practiced analytical skills allied with a sense of fairness and respect. Jack O’Neil (Glasgow Kelvin) independence independence independence independence independence independence independence independence independence independence independence independence independence independence independence independence independence independence.

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Jacob Olaniya (Headquarters) I am happy for the great opportunity. However, this would give me the better chance to provides more supports and services to the Party. Andy Oliver (Stonehaven & The Mearns) Please re-elect Andy Oliver for PDC NorthEast Open list to continue the progress to developing the resolutions needed now and for Independence. Kelly Parry (Bonnyrigg & Loanhead) Councillor since 2015. Local Government Convener & NEC member since 2020. Council Leader. National Campaign Director 2022. “Gets Stuff Done”. Alan Petrie (Peterhead) My job is a simple one, to help empower you to shape policy that works on the doors of the North East. Timothy Rideout (Dalkeith & District) Back to basics of listening to members and a laser focus on independence. The Party must answer the questions and set out the vision. Amber Roberts (Edinburgh Western) I have the passion and the drive to work closely with EOs throughout the party. Together we can make a difference. Munro Ross (Inverness City) Highly experienced activist, locally and nationally. Committed to keeping regular contact with all branches through zoom, email. Reinvigorate Regional committee, meet quarterly. Trade unionist, accountant.

Emma Russell (Falkirk South) With 15 years of HR experience I believe I possess the skill set required to be a proactive and productive Member of the Conduct Committee. Michael Russell (Strachur) Lifelong campaigner for Independence and will be till the job is finished! 50 years a member in 2024. SNP President since 2020. Christopher Sagan (Isle of Bute) Scottish Patriot. SNP loyalist, first joined 1976. European. Independence is everything. A life of successfully completing projects, big and small. Let’s get this done.

Maureen Watt (Aberdeen South & North Kincardine) My HR background has been useful on NEC. Re-establishing the vital role of the NEC in party democracy is a work in progress. Re-elect me. Iain Wentworth (Inverness City) If elected, I pledge to be relentless in striving for the Highlands and Islands to be central to every policy discussion and never secondary. Elaine Wylie (Perth St Johnstoun) MCC member since 2004. Activist for 30 years. Have held various office bearer positions. The party needs to get back to having cast iron discipline!

David Simpson (Falkirk South) Member in 1970s/1980s, rejoined 2014. Convener of Falkirk South Branch. I believe all technically competent motions should go to Conference regardless of sentiment. Andy Stuart (Westhill, Kintore, Blackburn) I’ve been an office bearer at all levels of the party including Co-Chair DMG & Disabled Members’ Convener. Disabled people need Indepenedence. Vote Andy Stuart. Douglas Thomson (Newington & Southside) Finance professional. Financial analyst. To win independence, we need a new approach to our finances - transparency, accountability and openness.

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STAND

60 Get your photo taken at the SNP Conference photobooth and remember to tag yourself and people you know when they appear on the SNP Facebook page.

Reports

Reports 2023 REPORT OF THE CONFERENCE COMMITTEE Lorna Finn, Convener of the Conference Committee As always, the Conferences Committee would wish to express their thanks to all branches and members who submitted resolutions for party conference. We do recognise the effort and thought that often goes into submissions, and the commitment of those individuals driving that forward at branch level. While we want to include all we can in the long list, we equally need to recognise how unwieldy the Provisional Agenda would look if some criteria were not applied. Indeed, whereas with 50 or so resolutions on the Provisional Agenda, we can be confident that half of them will make the Final Agenda, if the number on the Provisional Agenda were to be 100 or 150, then not only are the vast majority of submitters left disappointed, it also means that a large number of those amendments submitted will be lost alongside the original resolutions. In part, the re-establishment of National Council means that there is now at least another outlet and opportunity where a resolution might not have made the cut for the Provisional, or indeed the Final Agenda, can be heard. Branches may well come to the view that there will be less competition if submitting to National Council, thus increasing the chances of success. And to bang the drum once more – whether you were successful in getting a submission onto the long list or not – we would encourage engagement with the Policy Development Committee when drafting resolutions. That allows for simple errors to be corrected and even just for guidance on stylistic issues which may be the difference between making the long list or not. That engagement seems to have been greater this year, and some of those resolutions that you see on the Final Agenda have gone through that process and been tweaked here and there to help them reach that point. The Conferences Committee received a total of 169 resolutions. There were 52 policy resolutions and 7 internal resolutions accepted for the Provisional Agenda. There were 29 amendments submitted, a number of which pertained to internal resolutions. Subsequent to the publication of the Provisional Agenda, a number of the resolutions that had been included made it to the National Council agenda and so were removed (along with any submitted amendments) from what went to Delegates’ Choice. In all, 51 resolutions went forward for ranking by delegates.

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One added factor in the considerations this year was the resolution on Independence Strategy that you’ll see as Resolution 5 in the handbook. As stated elsewhere, the pledge at the Convention in Dundee was that the Party Leader would take on board the mood and feedback from the Regional Assemblies held across the country over the summer. The timetabling of those could not fit with the already agreed timetable for resolution submissions, and so the NEC agreed to an additional timetable to accommodate that. Following the conclusion of those Regional Assemblies, the text of the resolution was submitted and then opened up for potential amendments. There were 30 amendments submitted in total, many on similar themes. The task for the Conferences Committee was to unpick the key elements from amendments that offered notable change to what the original resolution sought. On top of that, to avoid having the confusion of a number of different Independence resolutions being debated at Conference, the decision of the Conferences Committee was to look at those related resolutions from the Provisional Agenda – all of which were in the top 20 ranked by delegates – and draw out the key differences from those to incorporate into the 7 amendments that you will see in the handbook. While resolutions with numerous amendments are never an easy ride – either for delegates or the chair – we hope that the structure of the debate will allow delegates to see clearly what they are being asked to vote for. There’ll be further explanation of the voting order and consequences of each at the start of the debate, and prior to voting. Additionally, while the bulk of that session is given over to the one resolution, there is already some flexibility built in, with a 15-minute buffer prior to the beginning of the later Internal Session. If we need that – and more – then we’ll use it. Finally, given the time needed for the debate around Resolution 5, the Committee were at pains to maximise the number of other resolutions that could be considered. By compositing a number of resolutions that had similar themes, we were able to expand the number that were able to be taken. Our thanks go to those submitters who were able to review additional text at short notice in order to accommodate that. We look forward to a lively Conference as we ready ourselves for taking the Independence message into the next Westminster election.

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Reports 2023 REPORTS OF THE NATIONAL OFFICE BEARERS The reports of National Office Bearers and others are available for members on the events section of the member’s hub. You can access these by scanning here:

Conference delegates can submit a written question to be answered by the office bearer, affiliate or parliamentary group. Questions can be submitted until 17h00 on Sunday 15 October. The online form is available at https://forms.gle/X2uZf83iBTdgP43e8 Answers will be posted on the member’s hub and emailed to the delegate submitting the question. The form can also be accessed by scanning here:

There is also an opportunity during Session 3 to ask questions in person, but given the number of resolutions in that session, delegates may find it easier to submit a question using the online form.

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Standing Orders

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Standing Orders for National Conference 01 Quorum

(v)rejected in favour of other resolutions, and

The quorum is as defined under the Constitution. A quorum count may be called for at any time during National Conference. Two minutes warning must be given before a count is taken. After this period the doors to the hall are sealed and no individuals admitted until the quorum count is completed.

(vi) rejected for other reasons. This information will be held at Headquarters and supplied to notifiable bodies on request after publication of the final agenda; d) to place resolutions and amendments on the agenda; and

02 Preparation of Agenda

e) to decide the order of business to be transacted, the placing of items on the agenda, and the approximate time to be allocated to items.

2.1 Conferences Committee is responsible for the preparation of the Agenda for National Conference and has power–

03 Undischarged Business

a) to decide whether resolutions, amendments, nominations and other matters pertaining to the Conference are in accordance with the Constitution and Rules and Standing Orders of the Party; b) to revise and amend resolutions and amendments or to incorporate in one resolution a number of similar resolutions from several notifiable bodies, and to rewrite the resolutions received, provided always that the principles underlying the resolution or amendment must not be infringed; c) to categorise all resolutions received under the following headings— (i)

put forward unamended,

(ii) put forward amended for presentation purposes, (iii) put forward composited, (iv) rejected as existing policy,

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3.1 The Convener of the Session should endeavour to leave five minutes free of business prior to conclusion of each Session to allow all motions for which no amendments have been submitted and have not been discussed to be put formally to Conference. 3.2 However, business undischarged at the end of a Session may be put to a subsequent Session if time permits for discussion.

04 Order of Business 4.1 At the beginning of Conference, the motion to approve the report of Conferences Committee must be passed by a simple majority. 4.2 The order of any item on the agenda may be altered on a motion from the Chair, or the floor, passed by a simple majority of those voting. 4.3 The Convener of the Session is the sole judge of the order in which motions and amendments are put.

05 Emergency Business 5.1 Business not on the written agenda, other than topical and emergency motions defined in 5.2 and 5.3 below, may be discussed only by consent of a majority of two-thirds of those voting, except as provided for in 5.4 below. 5.2 Topical Motions must relate to matters currently topical during Conference, which could not have been foreseen at the time the Agenda was compiled. They must not relate to internal, disciplinary or constitutional matters. Topical motions are debated in the ordinary manner provided for in these Standing Orders. 5.3 Emergency Motions must relate to matters currently topical during Conference, which could not have been foreseen at the time the Agenda was compiled. Emergency motions, which are not subject to debate in the normal manner, must be of a non-contentious nature which are likely to achieve overwhelming acceptance by Conference.

5.4 Any member wishing to bring before Conference emergency business not on the written agenda must inform the National Secretary before the commencement of the daily meeting of Conferences Committee.

06 Convener 6.1 The Business Convener of the Party, in person or by delegation to another member of the National Executive Committee, convenes proceedings except as provided for in 6.10 below. The Party Leader retains the right to convene the meeting. 6.2 The Convener of the Session is in charge of the proceedings and conducts them in accordance with recognised procedure as amplified by Standing Orders. 6.3 All motions, amendments, speeches, points of order and other business is addressed to the Chair. 6.4 The decision of the Convener of the Session on procedure, on all points of order and on choice of speaker is final and conclusive, subject only to the challenge of a motion of No Confidence in the Chair as provided for in 6.10 below. 6.5 Only one speaker may speak or be on their feet at any one time, save that any member may interrupt a speaker on a point of order. The Convener of the Session rules on who has the floor and the other member must immediately resume their seat.

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Standing Orders for National Conference 6.6 When the Convener of the Session rises, all members standing must resume their seats and maintain silence until the Convener resumes their seat. 6.7 Any member who, after being requested by the Convener of the Session to resume their seat and maintain silence, persistently refuses to do so, will forthwith be named by the Chair and without further discussion will be suspended from that Session and be requested to leave the Conference Chamber for the remainder of that Session. No motion, discussion, point of order, or interruption is permitted until the offending member has left the Conference Chamber. 6.8 If the member concerned persists in defying the Chair by refusing to leave the Conference Chamber or by contriving to speak or interrupt proceedings after the procedure in 6.7 has been invoked, they will be automatically suspended from that Session and from attending the rest of that National Conference, the National Executive Committee and of National Assembly for the next succeeding three calendar months. If they, subsequent to the National Conference at which the incident occurred, submit in writing to the Chair an unqualified apology and a specific assurance that they will in future obey the rulings of the Chair, the National Executive Committee, may, if it thinks fit, raise the suspension.

6.9 If any member is suspended from meetings of National Conference, the National Executive Committee or National Assembly more than once during any one year, the National Secretary must, at the next succeeding meeting of the National Executive Committee to that meeting at which the member was last suspended, formally name them for suspension from all meetings of National Conference, the National Executive Committee and National Assembly up to the next following National Conference. 6.10 Any member, not being the aggrieved member, may, on the Convener of the Session refusing to alter a ruling, move a motion of No Confidence in the Chair; If this is seconded by another member, other than the aggrieved member, a temporary Convener – the next in order respectively of the Depute Leader, whom failing the National Secretary, whom failing, another available member of the National Executive Committee – must take the Chair and without discussion put the motion to the meeting. 6.11 If the motion is supported by a simple majority of those voting, the temporary Convener continues in the Chair for that session. If the motion is not carried, the original Convener of the Session resumes the Chair. 6.12 Any member who has moved or seconded a motion of No Confidence in the Chair is not permitted to move or second another such motion during the same session.

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07 Conduct of Debate 7.1 It is expected that members remain in the Conference Chamber throughout a Session. A member requiring to leave must do so between speeches, and with as little disturbance as possible. 7.2 The ruling of the Convener of the Session on the competency of any motion or amendment is final. 7.3 Each delegate who wishes to speak must complete a card – obtainable from the Stewards – in respect of each item on the Conference Agenda on which they wish to speak. This should be returned to the Stewards well in advance of the calling of the motion. 7.4 Movers of motions (including the direct negative) or Reports are allowed five minutes to speak and other speakers, including movers of amendments, are allowed three minutes. The mover’s reply is allowed time as provided for in 7.6 below. Additional time is given at the discretion of the Convener of the Session to movers of major policy resolutions or Reports and movers of amendments thereto.

7.6 No member is entitled to speak more than once on any one motion unless on a point of order, except that movers of motions and amendments may reply and be allowed two minutes for this, the movers of motions having the opportunity of closing the debate. In replying, members must strictly confine themselves to answering previous speakers and must not introduce new matter. 7.7 Motions or amendments, other than the direct negative, not seconded will not be discussed. 7.8 Points of order must deal with the conduct or procedure of the debate. 7.9 Any mover of a motion or amendment to the Constitution or the Rules and Standing Orders may accept an amendment or amendments to this with the consent of a seconder and with the agreement of the Conference. 7.10 Any mover may withdraw a motion or amendment with the consent of a seconder and with the agreement of the Conference.

7.5 It is open to any member to move that a speaker be further heard. The motion, if seconded, is put to the meeting without discussion and is carried if passed by a majority of those voting. When an extension of time is allowed, it must be for not more than three minutes.

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Standing Orders for National Conference 08 Competent Amendments 8.1 Competent amendments and procedural motions are as detailed below. 8.2 Competent amendments to motions other than amendments to the Constitution or Rules are– a) to amend a motion by substitution, deletion or addition; b) to move the direct negative; or c) to remit the whole motion back to the proposer of the motion. 8.3 Competent amendments to amendments to the Constitution or Rules are– a) to amend a Constitutional Amendment or amendment to the Rules by substitution, deletion or addition; or b) to move the direct negative. 8.4 Competent amendments to reports of National Office Bearers and others presented to Conference for approval are– a) to note the Report; b) to amend the report by deletion of a part, providing notice of the amendment has been given to the Convener of the Session before the debate on that report has commenced. Such amendments will only be accepted at the discretion of the Convener of the Session; or c) to move the direct negative. 8.5 Procedural motions are– a) to adjourn the debate; b) to put the question; or c) to move “Next Business”.

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8.6 Procedural motions under 8.5 may not be moved or seconded by a delegate who has previously spoken in the debate and must be put to Conference without further discussion, except that under 8.5(b) the Convener of the Session may submit the motion to Conference only if satisfied that due balance has been observed in the debate and must allow the proposer of the original substantive motion to exercise their right of reply (under Standing Order 7.6) on making a claim to do so. 8.7 Amendments under 8.2, 8.3, and 8.4, and procedural motions under 8.5(a) and 8.5(b) are carried if passed by a majority of those voting and procedural motions under 8.5(c) are carried by a two-thirds majority. 8.8 The Convener of the Session may at their discretion permit a vote without discussion on an oral amendment to any motion, provided that the amendment does not alter the sense of the motion.

09 Voting

10 Dissent

9.1 All members of National Conference specified under the Constitution are entitled to vote on any matter before National Conferences.

It is open to any member to have their dissent recorded from any decision or ruling.

9.2 All members of National Conference have an equal entitlement to vote, except that the Convener of the Session has a casting vote. 9.3 Each member entitled to vote at National Conference is issued with a credential card bearing their name and indicating their status. 9.4 The Chief Steward or Depute Chief Steward, appointed by the National Executive Committee, is responsible for the counting of the votes for and against motions and amendments and report to the Convener of the Session, who announces the result to the Conference.

of Standing 11 Suspension Orders etc. 11.1 Any motion to suspend Standing Orders is carried if seconded and if supported by two-thirds of those voting. A suspension of Standing Orders is for a fixed period of time or for one item of business only. 11.2 The Conference has the right, by majority vote, to ask any member to withdraw from the meeting. 11.3 When the Convener of the Session formally leaves the Chair, no further business can be discharged during that Session.

9.5 The Convener of the Session may instruct a recount to be taken or, on a motion for a recount being passed, a recount must be taken. On a recount being called the doors to the hall are sealed and no individuals admitted until the recount has been completed. 9.6 If no recount be demanded, or when a final count has been taken, the Convener of the Session declares that the motion has or has not been carried, and no further discussions is permitted. 9.7 Voting by proxy is not permitted.

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C AT E R I N G

Essential Information

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Essential Information 2023 Conference sessions will be taking place in the P&J Live Arena of The Event Complex Aberdeen. Please use the venue’s main entrance on arrival at the SNP Annual Conference. Exhibition Area

Conference Session (Morning)

Conference Session (Afternoon)

Sunday 15 October

09h00 - 16h15

10h30 - 12h15

14h00 - 16h15

Monday 16 October

09h00 - 16h15

10h30 - 12h15

14h00 - 16h15

Tuesday 17 October

09h00 - 16h15

10h30 - 12h15

14h00 - 16h15

ADMISSION The Event Complex Aberdeen has a security check at the main entrance. Attendees will pass through security arches that detect any items needing inspection. If you bring a bag, security staff may request to inspect its contents. To save time, consider only bringing essential bags. Additionally, be prepared for the possibility of having to store bags in the cloakroom. Please Note: Admission to the conference is subject to attendees having the relevant pass. Passes must be worn and visible at all times. If, for any reason, you have registered for a pass but do not have it with you, please head to the SNP Registration Desk, where a member of the SNP staff will be ready to assist you.

FRINGE EVENTS Fringe meetings are an ideal way for members to take part in more focussed discussion around topical issues or policy with key stakeholders and are an important part of SNP Conference. The timetable for Fringe Events is as follows: Breakfast Sunday 15 October

Lunchtime

Evening

12h30 - 13h30

16h30 - 17h30 16h30 - 17h30

Monday 16 October

09h15 - 10h15

12h30 - 13h30

Tuesday 17 October

09h15 - 10h15

12h30 - 13h30

Venues for Fringe events will vary. Please refer to the full Fringe Events timetable in your Conference Handbook to confirm the venue of your chosen meeting. The Maps section of the handbook will help guide you to the required room. Otherwise, you can ask a member of the team at the SNP Registration Desk in the Main Concourse if you require further assistance in finding a fringe event.

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SECURITY & SECURITY PASSES There will be security staff present at all times throughout the Conference venue. In addition to assisting with arrangements, security staff will be checking credentials and membership cards on entry to each conference location. Please follow these simple security guidelines: ● Cooperate with all security staff, allowing your credentials to be examined at entry points to each location. ● Suitcases and large rucksacks are permitted into the venue but should be checked into the Cloakroom on arrival. All bags may be subject to a search by security staff. ● Take all of your belongings with you and do not leave bags unattended at any time. ● Report anything suspicious to the nearest steward or member of staff. Remember: Onsite stewards will also be asking delegates to show their accreditation and membership cards to allow access to the Main Arena.

FIRE SAFETY PROCEDURE As advised by the venue, in the event of an evacuation there will be both audible and visual alarms. The PAVA system will instruct persons to leave the venue via a pre-recorded message. Upon hearing this you must leave the building immediately, following the directions from stewards to any specified exits. Please proceed to the designated assembly point as directed by the stewards.

HEADQUARTERS DESK The SNP Headquarters desk will be situated in the Main Concourse. Staff will be on call to assist you with any questions or queries regarding the conference.

WIFI There will be free wifi available throughout the complex as provided by The Event Complex Aberdeen. On entry to the conference, you can connect by logging into the venue’s namesake and following any instructions.

QUIET ROOM The Quiet Room is situated in Arena Box 3 on the first floor of The Event Complex Aberdeen. This is an open access room that conference attendees can use for a variety of purposes. You may just need a break from the sensory load of Conference, or somewhere to use for contemplation or prayer. Whatever your purpose for using the room, all attendees are welcome.

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Essential Information 2023 If you are in the quiet room, please be respectful of other room users. The idea of the room is to keep noise to a minimum. Mobile calls and noise from electronic devices is strictly forbidden and conversations should be conducted quietly. If you do have to make or take a phone call, please move outside the room before calling or answering.

FIRST AID First Aid posts are clearly marked throughout the Conference venue. If you require medical assistance please notify the venue stewards who will be able to assist you further. If a First Aid professional is needed, a steward or member of staff will be able to facilitate this.

LOST PROPERTY The lost property point is located at the security office. Please make your way to the main reception if you have found or have an enquiry regarding any lost property.

SMOKING The Event Complex Aberdeen is a no-smoking building, this includes the use of e-cigarettes and vaping. There are designated smoking points outside the building for those who wish to smoke.

ACCESSIBILITY We aim to make the SNP Conference as accessible as possible for all members and visitors. If you require additional assistance in any regard, headquarters staff are situated at the SNP Desk in the Main Concourse. Please do not hesitate to ask for support at any time throughout your Conference experience.

FACILITIES The Event Complex Aberdeen is fully accessible across all levels. There are also a number of accessible facilities to assist conference visitors with individual requirements. These include:

• Changing Places: There is a spacious and accessible toilet and changing space located on the concourse level. This space includes changing facilities and a feeding chair for parents with young children to make use of if they prefer a more private environment.

• Accessible Toilets: Located throughout the venue on all levels. These are clearly marked and signposted.

• Accessible Parking: Located on the ground and subterranean levels. • Induction Hearing Loops: Available on site. • Accessible Seating: Please speak to a steward or member of staff if you require assistance. 140

• Assistance Dogs: Assistance Dogs are welcome at the venue. Please contact a member of staff if you require further assistance.

• Quiet Room: The Quiet Room is situated in Arena Box 3 on the first floor of The Event

Complex Aberdeen. This is an open access room that conference attendees can use for a variety of purposes.

• Designated Wheelchair Areas: There are lifts and additional public areas designated for wheelchair use onsite.

CONFERENCE SESSIONS There are a number of provisions in the Main Arena to help ensure that conference sessions are as accessible as possible for everyone attending the conference. These include: ● A British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter on stage at all times. ● Induction Hearing Loops located throughout the venue and in the Main Arena. ● On screen subtitles on the large screens in the Main Arena during all debates and speeches. ● A range of accessible seating. If needed, please let either a steward or a member of the SNP Headquarters team know your requirements.

DELEGATES/SPEAKERS If you require assistance filling out a speakers card. Please inform a steward or a member of the SNP Headquarters team. There are a number of stewards present in the Arena and can usually be found standing along the edges of the room toward the front. Headquarters staff can be found at the main desk situated in the Concourse.

TOPICAL AND EMERGENCY RESOLUTIONS Topical and Emergency Resolutions will be displayed on the large screens in the Conference Session Main Arena and read out loud by the Business Convener from the Stage. If however, you require additional assistance in this regard, please contact a member of the team at the SNP Headquarters desk ahead of the session.

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Essential Information 2023 LOCAL INFORMATION Travel Car: The Event Complex Aberdeen is located just off Aberdeen’s Western Peripheral Route. Car parking charges will apply. More information on parking can be found further down in the ‘Parking’ section. Please also be aware that the drop off and pick up maximum wait time is 30 minutes and parking charges may apply if you exceed this time limit. Cycling: Bicycle parking is available in both the overground and underground car parks and all spaces are accessible 24/7. On Foot: The Event Complex Aberdeen is 1.5 miles from both Aberdeen International Airport and Dyce Train Station and is approximately 5 miles from Aberdeen City Centre. Bus: The Jet Service 727 takes passengers directly to The Event Complex Aberdeen. This regular service runs from Aberdeen City Centre (Broad Street) via Great Northern Road and takes approximately 30 minutes from the City Centre. This service accepts both cash and card.

Parking There is extensive overground and underground parking situated onsite. Car parking charges will apply and can be paid for with both card and cash. Payment is taken by entering your car’s registration number on exit. You can also pay by the APCOA app up to 1 hour after you have left the venue. For more details on this method of payment, please visit the venue’s website via: www.pandjlive.com.

Cash Facilities There are no cash machines available within The Event Complex Aberdeen. Contactless payments are welcome if you are purchasing from The Event Complex Aberdeen facilities. However, cash may be required if you are purchasing from any of the Conference Exhibition Stalls. The nearest cash machines to the venue are:

• Co-Op, Sclattie Park Shopping Centre, Bucksburn, Aberdeen AB21 9QR • Aberdeen International Airport, Dyce, Aberdeen, AB21 7DU

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USEFUL NUMBERS Taxis ComCab Aberdeen 01224 353535 Aberdeen Taxis 01224 200200 Rainbow City Taxis Limited 01224 878787 Aberdeen Taxis 4 U 01224 909090 Taxicall Aberdeen 01224 516615 Elite Group Aberdeen 01224 473112

Nearby Restaurants Dyce Farm - Dining & Carvery 1A Dyce Drive, Aberdeen, AB21 0AF Tel: 01224 968605 Bankhead Inn Bankhead Road, Bucksburn, Aberdeen, AB21 9HQ 01224 712703 Four Mile Inn Inverurie Road, Aberdeen, AB21 9BB Tel: 01224 712588 The Craighaar Hotel & Restaurants Waterton Road, Aberdeen, AB21 9HS Tel: 01224 712275 Offshore Bar & Grill 2 International Gate, Aberdeen, AB21 0BE Tel: 01224 608350 Jurys Inn Aberdeen Airport Kitchen & Bar, Argyll Road, Dyce, Aberdeen, AB21 0AF Tel: 01224 43200 Dyce Tandoori 273 Stoneywood Road, Bucksburn, AB21 9JS Tel: 01224 710 303

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Essential Information 2023 GUIDE FOR FIRST TIMERS The National Conference is the ultimate decision-making body of the SNP. As an SNP member, you have the unique opportunity to take part in this exciting process. With so much packed into just three days, we understand that for first time attendees there is a lot of new information to take in. We hope that this brief guide will help you on your way to becoming a seasoned conference veteran in no time.

Arriving at Conference Make sure that you have your delegate or member visitor pass and your SNP membership card as you will need both to gain entry into Conference. Upon entry into the conference venue, you will have the opportunity to pick up a lanyard and pass holder to enable you to display your pass. Your pass must be visible at all times as it will be checked regularly throughout the venue and every time you enter the Arena. The Event Complex Aberdeen operates a security check at their main entrance, where attendees bags will be checked. You may save yourself time by not bringing any non-essential bags. If you do have a bag with you, please allow for an extra few minutes to get through this additional security step. Please also be aware that you may be asked to deposit larger bags in the cloakroom.

Overview There are three main elements to Conference:

• The Plenary Sessions located in the Main Arena are where delegates debate and vote on

policy resolutions and listen to keynote speeches from party leaders. Although only delegates can contribute and vote in these debates, member visitors are also welcome and encouraged to observe these sessions.

• Fringe meetings are located at varying times and locations throughout the conference.

They are an ideal way for members to take part in more intimate discussion around topical issues and policy with key stakeholders. The format generally follows a keynote speech from a representative from the sponsoring organisation and another from an elected SNP member. This is usually followed by a question and answer session between the fringe panel and the audience. Both delegates and member visitors can take part and contribute to these discussions. More details on individual fringe events can be found in the Fringe Programme section of the Conference Handbook.

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Resolutions There are four types of resolution which are debated in the plenary sessions:

• Policy Resolutions are the most common type of resolution at Conference, and they propose a policy position to be considered by delegates. If accepted, the resolution becomes SNP policy.

• Constitutional Resolutions take place during internal sessions, which only SNP members can attend. They concern the procedures by which the SNP is governed such as matters relating to the SNP’s constitution, rules or standing orders. These resolutions require a super-majority of two-thirds to pass.

• Topical Resolutions are based on subjects that have arisen after the deadline for submitting resolutions has passed.

• Emergency Resolutions are based on issues that have arisen during the Conference itself. Speaking at Conference To speak on a resolution during a Conference, you must be a delegate. If you are a delegate and wish to speak in a debate, please follow the guidelines below: 1. Collect a “Speaker Card” from one of the stewards as early as possible. You can easily identify a steward as they will be pacing up and down the aisles in the Main Arena. 2. Fill out the card with your details and the details of the resolution you wish to speak on. Remember to tick the box for “First Time Speaker”! 3. Ensure that you have outlined whether you are speaking for or against the resolution and whether you are forwarding or seconding. 4. Return the speaker card to the steward ensuring that you show them your delegate pass. Your card will then go to the Chair of the session - usually the Business Convenor. 5. It is advisable that you make your way to the side of the stage at the beginning of your chosen resolution debate so you are ready to ascend the stage if called by the Chair. 6. The Chair of the session will call out those who have indicated they wish to speak in the debate. Please be aware that speakers do not always get called, this is often dependent on the number of people who have submitted cards and the time left in the session. Please note: Speakers are given a maximum of 3 minutes to speak on a resolution. This is extended to 5 minutes for anyone who is moving a resolution or moving a direct negative. It is perfectly normal for speakers to have prepared a speech beforehand so please don’t be hesitant about taking your own notes onto the stage.

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Essential Information 2023 Voting at Conference As previously noted, only delegates can vote on resolutions. All votes are taken by a show of delegate cards, with a simple majority required to pass resolutions, amendments and “remit back”, unless the vote is on constitutional amendments which requires a two thirds majority. Depending on the cards that have been submitted to the Chair, resolution voting may take place as follows:

• Amendments to the resolution • The remit back • The resolution itself, whether amended or unamended dependent on how the first vote went • A direct negative may also be voted on opposing the resolution Please Note: If there have been no amendments or cards put in against a resolution, the Chair may ask delegates to pass the resolution by acclaim.

Social Events Conference season is a fantastic opportunity to meet and interact with fellow SNP members, not only at the Conference itself, but at the various social events surrounding it. There is something for everyone as branches and affiliate organisations alike will often plan various entertainment and social functions in the evenings of conference. These events often double as a fundraising effort so it’s always a good idea to try and support them. To find out what events are happening this year, have a look in the conference handbook for any adverts, or browse the Exhibition Hall where SNP organisations will often be selling tickets on stands.

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