SNP 90th Annual National Conference 2024

90th Annual National Conference

Edinburgh 30 August – 01 September 2024

FOR SCOTLAND

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.

John Swinney Leader

Welcome to the 90th SNP’s Annual National Conference! I’m delighted to be joining delegates from across the country in Edinburgh as SNP Leader and First Minister.

A lot has happened since we last gathered –a change of leadership and an incredibly tough Westminster election. This conference will mark a new chapter in our party’s history – a chapter that sees us coming together, uniting, and dedicating ourselves to a better future for people across Scotland.

One of the promises I made when I became SNP Leader was to ensure open and respectful dialogue in our party. And this conference will see just that.

We gather this weekend to debate, to listen, to find common ground about how best we go forward so we can be the party Scotland needs just now.

A party that makes a real difference to the lives of people the length and breadth of our country, a party that puts Scotland’s interests first, and a party that can see Scotland’s future is best served as an independent country.

The SNP has an important job right nowbecause, while it is hugely welcome that the Tories have been booted out of government, it’s clear that only the SNP will stand up for Scotland’s interests and hold the Labour government to account.

Yet again, people in Scotland are being forced to pay the price of Westminster austerity. We will work with the new Labour government when it is in the interests of the people of Scotland, but the cuts being announced by Labour - cuts they repeatedly denied would happen during the election - will make things even tougher for households who are already struggling.

People want and deserve better.

Against a backdrop of Labour austerity putting serious financial pressure on the Scottish Government, the SNP must continue to do everything it can to protect our public services and people across Scotland.

As First Minister, my SNP government will be laser focused on delivering on the priorities of the Scottish people including eradicating child poverty, promoting economic growth, tackling the climate emergency and making our public services sustainable. We will continue to show that decisions about Scotland are best made in Scotland.

As a party, this conference is a time for us to redouble our efforts to persuade those who are yet to be convinced that independence is the best future for Scotland and build the levels of support that are necessary for us to achieve independence.

We know how much more we could do with the full powers of a normal independent country. We must convince others of how we can build a fairer, wealthier, happier, greener, more equal nation - but only with the full powers that independence brings.

Driving growth and trade across Scotland

Working alongside our partners in Scotland, including the Scottish Government, Heathrow is proud to have expanded its route network to now serve Dundee, Kirkwall, and Sumburgh, alongside established connections to Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Inverness. These routes are supported by a significant domestic passenger discount applied by Heathrow, aimed at strengthening and protecting this connectivity which fosters inward investment, boosts Scottish exports, and underpins a thriving tourism industry.

Top exports by volume from Heathrow include:

2.5 million between Heathrow and Scotland in 2023 passengers

Connecting Scotland to the world

New routes mean more of Scotland now has one-stop access to over 200 destinations around the world – and vice versa.

Scottish Salmon Scotch Whisky

Agenda

Agenda Friday 30 August

Session 1 10h00-12h30 (Internal)

10h00 Conferences Committee Report

10h05 Internal Election Review led by Party Leader

12h30 Close

Session 2 14h00-16h30 (Public)

14h00 Address – Keith Brown MSP, Depute Leader

14h15 Resolutions

15h30 Policy Discussion on Economy and Net Zero – led by Kate Forbes MSP, Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Gaelic 16h30 Close

01 LOCAL AUTHORITY RENEWABLE ENERGY SCHEMES

Conference commends Highland Council and the Administration SNP Group for the development of one of Scotland’s first Local Authority renewable energy schemes; The Hydro Ness scheme capable of generating 500,000 kWh per annum.

Conference also supports their efforts to go further in coming years to expand into solar generation and Energy Storage.

Conference believe that Local Authorities and Public bodies can play an important role in the transformation to green energy and that such moves not only allow Councils and other bodies to generate additional revenue for local and public services but also to protect them and the public from variations in the retail price of energy caused by factors beyond their control.

TAIN & DISTRICT BRANCH

AMENDMENT

Add at end:

‘Conference further resolves that no blanket restrictions on developments should be placed by organisations such as the MOD.

NA H-EILEANAN AN IAR BRANCH

02 A JUST TRANSITION FOR SCOTLAND

Conference believes it is essential to secure a just transition, ensuring that Scotland’s energy sector is supported into a renewable energy future that meets our net zero ambitions.

Conference believes that the North East of Scotland can become the net zero capital of the world, and welcomes a just transition that invests in green technology and creates good skilled jobs. Conference notes that the expansion of Scotland’s renewable energy sector is one of the greatest export opportunities Scotland will ever have.

Conference notes that the North Sea basin is a maturing resource, and that the Scottish Government is responsibly taking action to ensure that the North East’s highly skilled workforce is supported in the transition to a green energy future.

Conference notes with alarm the position of the UK Labour Party, who have abandoned their £28 billion investment pledge and have committed to an energy strategy that experts warn risks tens of thousands of Scottish jobs. Conference rejects such short sighted energy strategy that threatens to repeat Thatcher’s decimation of mining communities in the North East of Scotland.

Conference highlights that over £300 billion in revenue has flown to the UK Treasury from the North Sea since the 1970s and condemns the failure of consecutive Conservative Governments to spend a single penny towards matching the Scottish Government’s £500 million Just Transition Fund.

Conference supports further investment in the just transition, welcomes the Scottish Government’s success so far with the Sumitomo and Haventus projects, and urges the UK Government to make meaningful investment that takes workers with us on our journey to net zero.

Conference urges the UK Government to devolve energy powers to Scotland, notes that remote control of Scottish energy from Westminster has been a complete failure, and highlights the necessity of Scottish independence to put Scotland’s energy future safely in Scotland’s hands.

ALLAN MSP, MICHELLE THOMSON MSP

ALASDAIR

Agenda Friday 30 August

03 FINANCING A JUST TRANSITION

Conference believes that Scotland needs a new economic narrative, one that aligns us with the notions of social justice that prevail in our Northern European neighbours.

We need a bold, transformational, mission orientated strategy that sets up Scotland’s economy to maximise the benefits it can achieve from the Just Transition to a sustainable economy, one where all the people of Scotland are able to thrive within our planetary boundaries.

Conference asserts that it is the Scottish National Party’s vision for Scotland for us to be investing in improving the Wellbeing and productivity of the Scottish people in a way that will make them the envy of the world.

For Scotland’s economy to truly thrive in a manner consistent with those objectives it requires enormous investment, and investment that is targetted in a manner complimentary to our ethical and environmental ambitions.

Conference therefore calls on the Scottish Government to encourage the private sector to create innovative and ethical investment vehicles to better direct the vast investment resources available domestically within Scotland.

Conference further calls on the Scottish Government to develop and introduce a Sustainability Coefficient for all public sector bodies, and bodies working on behalf of the public sector, to apply to the present day value of all investments to reflect their probable value 25 years in the future given the present day contribution of that investment to climate change.

Such a Coefficient should be designed to ensure that investments that are not objectively contributing to a sustainable future for our grandchildren should be valued at zero, as that is what the evidence tells us they will actually be worth 25 years from now.

Finally Conference calls on the Scottish Government to recommend to the upcoming Citizens’ Assembly on Local Authority Finance a taxation regime designed specifically to raise sufficient revenue for a pre-Independence Scotland to make real the vision of social justice the people of Scotland desire, and to do so in such a manner that encourages economic practices that are desirable and that actively discourages those that are not.

Conference declares that for too long Scotland has subsisted on the scraps fed to us by Westminster, it is time that we use the powers available to us to chart a different course..

WEST FIFE & COASTAL VILLAGES BRANCH

04 EFFECTIVE USE OF TAX POWERS

Conference welcomes recent research from the STUC setting out how the Scottish Government might press further in the creative use of existing land and tax powers as part of a push to increase revenue and transform Scotland’s economy for benefit of the great majority.

Conference wishes to see the best possible use of Holyrood’s limited tax powers to protect public investment and expenditure in the face of more UK-driven austerity, to further our aims of a more just and equal society, and to demonstrate persuasively to the electorate the better direction a Scotland fully in charge of its own destiny could secure.

In order to mitigate damaging cuts and to build purposeful partnerships for economic change – not least with trade unions and people in local communities – conference therefore calls for practical moves to:

* Increase the tax contribution of higher earners across Scotland

* Explore realistic options for a wealth tax

* Grant local authorities the power and discretion to introduce taxes which appropriately meet local needs and protect local services

* Engage positively with the STUC on its proposals for generating more revenue to tackle poverty and inequality, and to invest in a sustainable economic and energy future

Conference recognises that many smaller European nations which an independent Scotland will seek to learn from generate substantially more revenue through taxation, generate more revenue locally, and enjoy significantly lower inequalities of wealth and income.

In making the case for Scotland’s prosperous, self-governing future, we believe that it is absolutely essential to use existing powers, however limited, to continue to protect our country from the ravages of UK policies, and to build deeper and wider support for gaining the economic mechanisms to improve life for all which can only come with independence. SNP TRADE UNION GROUP

Agenda Saturday 31 August

Session 3 10h15-12h30 (Internal)

10h15 Governance and Transparency Review – Implementation Progress and Next Steps

11h45 Internal Resolutions

12h00 Office Bearer Reports

12h30 Close

05 CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT

Conference resolves that, to allow changes to the governance of the party which require constitutional amendment to be made before Autumn 2025, that until the next meeting of National Conference, Paragraphs 45.1 and 45.2 of the constitution are amended by inserting the words “or National Council” after “National Conference”.

NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

06 RESOLUTION CRITERIA FRAMEWORK

Conference welcomes the role that members have in proposing policies to create a better Scotland and secure our independence. Conference fundamentally believes in the principles of democratic engagement and celebrates the key role that the party membership plays in producing party policy.

Conference notes that for many branches, there is a lack of accessible guidance when it comes to drafting resolutions as well as there being no clear objective criteria by which a resolution may be accepted or rejected by the Conferences Committee.

Conference therefore calls for a Criteria Framework to be developed which outlines the processes a resolution must pass before becoming party policy, a list of conditions it must meet before being considered by the Conferences Committee as well as an example of reasons by which the Conferences Committee may reject a resolution.

Conference furthermore calls for mandatory feedback to be provided to branches and constituency associations for why a resolution is rejected by the Conference Committee as well as providing suggested amendments which could improve its chances of making the provisional agenda.

LONDON BRANCH

Session 4 14h00-16h30 (Public)

14h00 Address by Stephen Flynn MP, Leader of the SNP Westminster Group

14h20 Resolutions

15h15 Policy Discussion on Public Services – led by Shona Robison MSP, Cabinet Secretary to Finance and Local Government

16h15 Topical and Emergency Resolutions

16h30 Close

07 END WESTMINSTER AUSTERITY

Conference resolves that the austerity regime imposed on Scotland by the UK Government since 2010 must now come to an end.

Conference recognises that successive UK budgets have fallen far short of what Scotland needs to deliver further investment in social security, public services, and infrastructure, and that the wellbeing of the people of Scotland is consistently undermined by Westminster decisionmakers.

Conference deplores the human toll that austerity has taken across Scotland and the UK, with the Joseph Rowntree Foundation condemning the levels of extreme poverty experienced in parts of the UK as “appallingly high”, and a UN Special Rapporteur concluding that the scale of poverty in the UK is “simply not acceptable” and may be in violation of international law.

Conference notes that the First Minister repeatedly highlighted research by the Institute for Fiscal Studies which forecast further devastating cuts to public services under proposed tax and spending plans by both the Conservative Party and the Labour Party. Further notes that the Labour Chancellor has subsequently confirmed a £20 billion funding gap in the UK’s public finances.

Conference highlights that UK Government austerity policies have impacted heavily upon the devolved spending available to Scotland. Conference calls on the new Labour UK Government to reverse the £1.3 billion cut to Scotland’s capital funding allocation, and to increase spending on public services in its upcoming budget.

Conferences notes that, despite the continued imposition of Westminster austerity and the limitations of devolution, the Scottish Government continues to deliver the most effective public services in the UK, as well as a social security system which issues £1.1 billion more than is provided by the UK Block Grant for social security purposes, helping to keep an estimated 100,000 children out of poverty in 2024-25.

Agenda Saturday 31 August

Conferences notes that, despite the continued imposition of Westminster austerity and the limitations of devolution, the Scottish Government continues to deliver the most effective public services in the UK, as well as a social security system which issues £1.1 billion more than is provided by the UK Block Grant for social security purposes, helping to keep an estimated 100,000 children out of poverty in 2024-25.

Conference resolves that only the full powers of an independent state will allow Scotland to be free of the regressive and damaging social, fiscal, and economic policies of the UK Government, and to pursue the vision of a fairer, more prosperous Scotland.

08 REVIEW OF EMERGENCY SERVICE CONTROL IN ISLAND AND RURAL LOCATIONS

Conference recognises the excellent work being undertaken across the country by our Emergency Services.

However, the centralised organisation of Emergency Services, for example that of the Ambulance Service, does not effectively reflect the reality for island and rural communities, undermining the effectiveness of the service because assumptions made for urban Scotland are not appropriate in these settings.

While a move to an efficient centrally organised system is understandable and to be supported where it is appropriate, increasingly experience in island and rural areas has shown its limitations and weaknesses in these settings.

Conference believes that everyone in Scotland should have emergency services which are appropriate to their local circumstances and needs.

Conference therefore calls on the Scottish Government to review the organisation of all statutory emergency services with respect to their delivery to island and rural communities to ensure that they are appropriate to them, and to make operational changes to improve service delivery.

ISLAY, JURA AND COLONSAY BRANCH, INVERNESS CITY BRANCH

COLLETTE STEVENSON MSP, BOB DORIS MSP

09 TACKLING THE DRUGS DEATH CRISIS

Conference recognises that drug deaths in Scotland are still too high, and every life lost to addiction is a tragedy.

Conference supports the SNP Scottish Governments’ plans to take a public health approach to tackle the drug deaths crisis and recognises the strong link between drug (and alcohol) misuse and deprivation.

Conference recognises that, as highlighted in the Scottish Government’s Drug Law Reform proposals, the UK Government could do more to work with the Scottish Government to help introduce harm reduction measures.

Conference encourages devolving further, specific powers to Holyrood including the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, so we can go further to reduce harm and improve lives in Scotland.

Conference encourages the Scottish Government’s hopes to create a society where problematic drug use is treated as a health, not a criminal matter, reducing stigma and discrimination and enabling the person to recover and contribute positively to society.

Conference appreciates that Scotland needs a caring, compassionate, and human rights informed drugs policy, with public health and the reduction of harm as its underlying principles.

Conference supports the decriminalisation of drugs for personal use - allowing people found in possession of drugs to be treated and supported rather than criminalised and excluded.

Conference appreciates that decriminalisation is no longer a radical proposal, and that thirty countries around the world have now recognised the harm caused by criminalisation and moved to change their drug laws.

Conference supports the introduction of a framework to allow Supervised Drug Consumption Facilities, providing a supervised and safe space for people who use drugs and giving immediate benefits for individuals, their families, and the wider community.

Conference supports the Scottish Government’s National Drug Mission set out to improve and save lives, at the core of which is ensuring that every individual is able to access the treatment and recovery they choose.

CHRISTINA MCKELVIE MSP, AUDREY NICOLL MSP

Agenda

Friday 30 August Sunday 01 September

Session 5 10h15-12h30 (Public)

10h15 Fraternal Address by Plaid Cymru

10h30 Policy Discussion on International Affairs – led by Angus Robertson MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Constitution and External Affairs

11h30 Resolutions

12h15 Close

10 HOUSING AS A COMMON GOOD

Conference welcomes the commitment in our 2021 manifesto to using a Citizens’ Assembly to examine how best to reform Local Authority funding in the long term but recommends that in the meantime the Scottish Government should phase in supplementary taxes to raise funding for Local Authorities that are stretched to breaking point by austerity imposed on Scotland by Westminster.

First amongst these Conference recommends that the Scottish Government introduce a Supplementary Land Tax, on all ultimate beneficial owners or legal persons with total property holdings larger than one acre, to finance a Housing Land Corporation jointly owned by all Scottish Local Authorities. Such a tax should be levied on land by how it is used and would exempt land used exclusively for agriculture or crofting by its owner and land owned by public bodies or in the common good.

Conference recognises that the introduction of such a Housing Land Corporation (HLC) was envisioned as a recommendation of the report of the Social Justice and Fairness Commission and adopted as party policy in 2021. It could be a modern incarnation of the great tradition of holding land in the common good within Scotland.

Such a Corporation would do the heavy lifting of acquiring land across Scotland that it would then pass on at cost to local authorities, housing associations, and community owned bodies to increase Scotland’s Social Housing Stock and put an end to our Housing Crisis once and for all.

Conference would encourage SNP Parliamentarians to legislate for such a body as a priority, with full powers to:

• compulsorily purchase land at existing use value, in a manner compatible with the National Planning Framework, using a bespoke streamlined process.

• assume ownership of land that does not have its ultimate beneficial owners registered to pay the tax before the deadline for its introduction.

• facilitate the development of the industrial and financial capacity nationally to increase the stock of available, warm, secure, affordable homes for social rent, by up to 50,000 per annum, by 2030.

• focus efforts on the most environmentally efficient methods of doing so, including acquiring and retro-fitting existing properties, or other programmes that might maximise the availability of housing suitable for a sustainable future.

• create a range of standardised plans, sympathetic to the diverse character of Scottish communities, to help speed up that development.

• ensure all homes built on land supplied by the HLC maximise their energy generation and storage potential to minimise grid demand and congestion.

• encourage the use of sustainable and future proof infrastructure, including local micro-grids, district heating networks and communal ground source heat pumps, during planning and initial construction.

• work in partnership with communities to empower them to design, operate, and own developments in a way that creates wealth and wellbeing for those communities.

• explore and develop new and innovative funding options to maximise the ability of communities to benefit from access to land for development.

• ensure that rural communities are revived and centuries of depopulation reversed as a priority.

• help people that want to build their own home to do so using a similar model to that used in Germany.

• explore options to overcome temporary industrial capacity bottlenecks like importing pre-manufactured units from markets with spare construction capacity.

• explore options to boost economic and industrial development as part of a transition to net zero.

Conference would not expect parliamentarians to limit their ambition to those goals but to use them as inspiration to go further and achieve more.

WEST FIFE AND COASTAL VILLAGES BRANCH AMENDMENT

AMENDMENT

In the first sentence of the second paragraph, delete “on all ultimate beneficial owners or legal persons with total property holdings larger than one acre”, and in the second sentence after “crofting” insert “and diversification”..

NA H-EILEANAN AN IAR BRANCH

Agenda Sunday 01 September

11 ENSHRINING THE RIGHT TO ABORTION IN THE FUTURE CONSTITUTION OF AN INDEPENDENT SCOTLAND

Conference notes the recent developments in the United States, where the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, have led to significant rollbacks in women’s reproductive rights across several states. This landmark decision had protected women’s right to choose for nearly half a century. In contrast, France took a proactive step in 2023 by enshrining the right to abortion in its constitution.

Conference believes that women’s rights are human rights, and access to safe, legal abortion is a fundamental aspect of healthcare and bodily autonomy. The right to choose should not be subject to the changing tides of political or judicial decisions but should be a guaranteed and protected right within the highest legal framework of our nation.

Conference resolves that the SNP would call for the right to abortion to be enshrined in the future constitution of an independent Scotland, safeguarding women’s reproductive rights against any potential political or legal regression.

ELGIN BRANCH

12 INFORMED CONSENT MODEL FOR ADULT TRANSITION CARE

Conference recognises that the ICD-11 has removed Gender Dysphoria from its list of mental health conditions, and the move away from pathologizing trans identity this represents. Conference also recognises the extreme waiting times and significant distress that needing to seek this outdated diagnosis imposes on trans people trying to access Gender Affirming Care.

Conference calls for Gender Affirming Care to be brought in line with all other models of healthcare for adults, and operate off of an informed consent model without additional need for a psychiatric diagnosis.

Conference further calls for additional training and support to be given to GPs and other healthcare practitioners to assist them with supporting their trans patients.

OUT FOR INDEPENDENCE

Session 6 14h00-16h15

14h00 Policy Discussion on Child Poverty – led by Shirley-Anne Somerville MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice

15h10 Topical and Emergency Resolutions

15h30 Address by John Swinney MSP, Party Leader and First Minister

16h15 Close of Conference

FRINGE EVENTS AT

Protecting Consumers and Businesses: Building Trust and Confidence in Regulated Markets

Saturday 31 August

12:30-13:30

Moorfoot Room

FOOD AND REFRESHMENTS

How Can a Homegrown Energy Transition Boost Skills and Investment in Scotland?

Saturday 31 August 16:30-17:30

Ochill Room

FOOD AND REFRESHMENTS

The Future of Health and Care: Workforce, Sustainability and Access to Care

Saturday 31 August | 16:30- 17:30

Moorfoot Room

FOOD AND REFRESHMENTS

Exhibitors

Stands

01-10 is our Small Business Marketplace kindly sponsored by Lloyds Banking Group. Visit our Small Business Marketplace to support independent small businesses that are vital to our economy. We are showcasing new businesses every day of conference, so please pop along to check them out.

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.

The Port of Leith Distillery is a remarkable new landmark in Edinburgh’s historic whisky district of Leith. This is the UK’s first vertical whisky distillery which also plays host to a visitor experience tour/retail space and the popular top-floor Distillery Bar. Expect to find well-crafted cocktails, thoughtfully curated small plates, and an impressive selection of new-wave whisky - all set against panoramic views of the city and water beyond.

Hi, I’m Shona and I’m an illustrator, working from my home studio in the East End of Glasgow! I sell custom hand-drawn illustrations, greetings cards, wedding invites, tattoo designs and offer jacket painting to my customer’s - all on a commission basis. I also create and sell art prints, homeware items, t-shirts, upcycled clothing pieces and accessories.  Some of my inspiration comes from the 90s/00s era, the spooky and dark as, well as subcultures from the past and present.

BARKY BOYS

Barky Boys offers a wide range of curated dog foods, natural treats, clothing, and other accessories. In their Leith store they also offer their human friends, they have specialty coffee and hot chocolate, as well as a selection of locally made human treats.

Sophy Louise is an illustrator based in the east end of Glasgow. She specialises in designing printed goods and clothing that celebrate the vibrancy of Scottish culture and the humour found within it. Louise’ practice is best described as visual storytelling – with inspiration stemming from heritage, folklore and contemporary Scottish language. Clearly, there’s stories to be found everywhere.

SF BRAND

SF is forever - and their goods are too! All designed by Keir, they are locally produced and ethically sourced. They have adopted an iconic symbol of Glasgow for this generation, that will bring a smile to your face!

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.

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SNP Headquarters Desk

The SNP Headquarters desk, situated in the main concourse of The EICC, Edinburgh, is your point of contact for all general information and enquiries.

Email: member.care@snp.org

Website: www.snp.org

12

Cancer Research UK

Cancer Research

UK (CRUK) is the world’s largest cancer charity dedicated to saving lives through research. In 2022/23, we invested around £33 million in research in Scotland.

Email: ScotlandPA@cancer.org.uk

X: @CRUKScotland

Website: cancerresearchuk.org

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Marie Curie

Marie Curie is the largest third sector provider of palliative and end of life care for adults in Scotland. We campaign for the best possible care and support for those facing dying, death and bereavement.

Website: mariecurie.org.uk

X: @MarieCurieSco

Educational Institute of Scotland

The 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 campaigns to protect and improve educators’ pay & conditions, seeking to promote “sound learning” across sectors.

X: @EISUnion Website: www.eis.org.uk

Scottish Autism

Scottish Autism is Scotland’s largest autism charity. Our services include a national advice line, housing support, day/outreach services, social enterprises and New Struan school. Our mission is to enable autistic people to lead happy, healthy and fulfilling lives.

Tel: 01259 720044

E-mail: autism@scottishautism.org

Website: www.scottishautism.org

FB: /scottishautism X: @scottishautism

Instagram: @scottishautism

Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans

At Sight Scotland we’re tackling vision loss together. We offer support and advice, learning, care, accessible formats and campaigns for equal rights. Sight Scotland Veterans provides free support to ex-servicemen and women affected by sight loss, regardless of the cause.

Email: nicoletta.primo@sightscotland.org.uk

Tel: 0131 229 1456

X: @SightScotland @SightScotVets

Website: www.sightscotland.org.uk

Scottish Police Federation

The Scottish Police Federation is the staff association that represents over 99% of the police officers in Scotland; currently more than 16,250 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.

X: @scotspolfed Website: www.spf.org.uk

REVIVE Coalition

REVIVE is a unique coalition of animal welfare, environmental and social justice organisations who have been looking to radically change the way huge swathes of Scotland is owned and managed for the benefit of our people, wildlife and the environment.

X: @ReviveCoalition

Website: revive.scot

Exhibitors 30 August – 01 September

WWF Scotland

WWF Scotland is dedicated to finding solutions to a broad range of environmental problems. Climate change, threats to natural resources and rising energy use impacts on people and wildlife around the world. We work on these issues by providing solutions, influencing policy and gaining public support. Please visit our stand.

Email: Scotland@wwf.org.uk

Phone: 0131 659 9100

X: @wwfScotland

Website: wwfscotland.org.uk

Nourish Scotland/Public Dining

Nourish Scotland is an organisation focusing on food policy and practice. Currently we are working for the creation of “public diners” – new public infrastructure, in the form of affordable restaurants, that supports a better food system.

Email: abigail@nourishscotland.org.uk

Tel: 07984 968807

X: @nourishscotland

Website: nourishscotland.org

Change Mental Health

Change Mental Health is a national mental health charity that has been supporting people with their mental health for over 50 years across Scotland. We want to change mental health services for the better and to tackle the stigma surrounding it.

Email: aidan.mitchell@changemh.org

Tel: 0131 662 4359

X: @changemh

Website: changemh.org

Coalfields Regeneration Trust

The Coalfields Regeneration Trust is dedicated to building prosperity and opportunity in coalfield communities across Britain. The charity is the only organisation with the sole focus of improving the lives of the 5.7 million people who live in coalfield areas.

Email: crt.hub@coalfields-regen.org.uk

Tel: 01259 230910

FB: /CRTScotland

Website: www.coalfields-regen.org.uk

Guide Dogs Scotland

Guide Dogs is here to help the two million people living with sight loss in the UK live the life they choose. Our expert staff, volunteers and life-changing dogs are here to help people affected by sight loss live actively, independently, and well.

ScotlandExternalAffairs@guidedogs.org.uk

Phone: 0131 619 2342

FB: Guide Dogs Scotland X: @guidedogsscot

Website: Guidedogs.org.uk

Electrical Safety First

Electrical Safety First is the charity dedicated to reducing deaths and injuries caused by electrical accidents in homes. We campaign to improve electrical safety regulation and make sure that safety messages are appropriate, up-to-date and well communicated.

For more information visit: electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk

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British Heart Foundation Scotland

BHF Scotland funds ground-breaking research that will get us closer than ever to a world free from the fear of heart and circulatory diseases. Deaths from Scotland’s single biggest killer are rising and people who need heart care can’t wait.

Amelia Lincoln Policy and Public Affairs Coordinator The Cube, 43a Leith Street Edinburgh EH1 3AT

Email: lincolna@bhf.org.uk

Website: www.bhf.org.uk

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.

Website: www.firstbus.co.uk

Exhibitors 30 August – 01 September

Kurdish People’s Democratic Assembly of Britain

The Kurdish People’s Democratic Assembly of Britain is the largest representative body for over 400,000 Kurds resident across the United Kingdom. The Assembly makes contributions to raise public interest in events across Kurdistan and the Middle East and campaigns for a peaceful resolution to the Kurdish question.

Email: info@kurdishassembly.uk

X: @KurdishAssembly

WASPI Scotland was formed in 2017 to highlight the injustices suffered by 50’s born women as a result of State Pension Acts 1995 & 2011, enforcing State Pension age delays of up to 6 years, with little or no notice, affecting 345,000 in Scotland. 28 27 29

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. Through its campaigning RNIB Scotland gives people with sight loss a voice.

Email: rnibscotland@rnib.org.uk

X: @RNIBScotland FB: @RNIBScotland Instagram:@RNIBScotland Website: www.rnib.org.uk/scotland

Scottish Swimming

Scottish Swimming is the governing body for swimming, para swimming,  artistic swimming, diving, water polo, open water swimming and masters swimming in Scotland.

For further information please visit www.scottishswimming.com or email info@scottishswimming.com

WASPI Scotland

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 directly to your home every eight weeks. Join now!

X: @independencemag

Email: indymag@saltiregraphics.scot

Edinburgh Central SNP Host Committee Stall

As the host Branch, Edinburgh Central SNP welcomes you to Edinburgh! Come to our stall to buy tickets for conference socials, including a folk night with Rob Gibson.  Why not join the SNP Club while you’re there - it is open to all members in the city.

Contact: https://www.facebook.com/ EdinburghCentralSNP/

SNP Store

The SNP Store offers official SNP merchandise. Visit or look online at: www.snpstore.org

Email: cameron.wake@rwe.com 32

RWE

RWE is a world-leading renewable energy company, with ambitions to invest €55 billion in green technologies by 2030. Scotland is key to our plans, with a 1.2GW pipeline of onshore wind projects and plans to produce green hydrogen at Grangemouth.

Cameron Wake Public Affairs Manager

RWE

Tel: +447920089439

Exhibitors

Chest Heart and Stroke Scotland

Chest Heart and Stroke Scotlandis the country’s largest charity helping people with chest, heart and stroke conditions live life to the full.

Find out more about our campaign to make sure everyone gets access to the rehab they need.

Website: www.chss.org.uk

European Movement in Scotland

Scottish Alcohol Industry Partnership

The Scottish Alcohol Industry Partnership (SAIP) is a platform for industry partners to work together to support, devise and deliver initiatives that contribute towards the promotion of responsible consumption and tackle harmful drinking in Scotland.

Email: saipsecretariat@swa.org.uk

Website: www.saip.org.uk

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 Saturday at 16h30pm. 36 35

SNP Friends of Palestine

The European Movement in Scotland (EMiS) is Scotland’s pro Europe voice. We are the largest pro-EU non-party political campaigning organisation in Scotland. Our goal is membership of the European Union. We campaign to promote the European Union and Scotland’s fullest possible participation now and for the future.

For more information or to join the Movement: euromovescotland.org.uk

Social media: @EuroMoveScot

The British Association for Shooting and Conservation & Scotland’s Regional Moorland Groups

The British Association for Shooting and Conservation is Scotland and the UK’s largest shooting organisation. We promote sustainable shooting practices, offer comprehensive advice, training and education programmes, carry out political lobbying, implement wide-ranging conservation initiatives and safeguard the interests of shooting.

Contact Details:

Lianne MacLennan

Engagement Manager BASC Scotland 07715 591455  lianne.maclennan@basc.org.uk

Website: basc.org.uk

Instagram: @scotlandbasc

Facebook: @BASCScotland

X: @BASCScotland

Scotland’s Regional Moorland Groups

Scotland’s Regional Moorland Groups are a collection of sporting estates from across six regions of Scotland. These groups represent the true grass roots and deliver an award-winning educational programme called ‘Estates That Educate’. This exciting initiative sees rural workers from estates deliver an interactive experience for youngsters through practical demonstrations, group exercises, walks and talks to give a valuable learning experience which will broaden their understanding and knowledge of the countryside as a whole and open them up to the various rural career opportunities that are available.

Contact:

Deirdre Falconer 07946 046728

Website: Scotland’s Regional Moorland Groups (scot-rmg.co.uk)

Instagram:

@scotsregionalmoorlandgroups

X: @ScotRMG

39

Soil Association Scotland and Woodland Trust Scotland

Soil Association Scotland develops solutions for sustainable food and farming, while the Woodland Trust Scotland works to halt the loss of native woods and trees. The two charities work together to promote the benefits of integrating more trees on farms.

Our work in Scotland (soilassociation.org)

Woodland Trust

40

Scottish Professional Football League

This exhibition is a joint venture between the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL), SPFL Trust and Scottish Women’s Premier League, celebrating the positive impact football has on communities across Scotland.

Email: info@spfl.co.uk

Phone: 0141 333 9585

41

SSE

Headquartered in Perth, SSE is electrifying the Scottish economy with £20 billion of low-carbon investment this decade, unlocking Scotland’s leadership opportunity in renewable energy while creating thousands of good jobs across the country.

Contact: sse.com

42

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

43

Website: www.sgn.co.uk 44 45

Scottish Water

Scottish Water is publicly owned. We provide water and wastewater services vital to everyone. From source to tap, 365 days a year, we supply world class water and care to protect Scotland’s precious natural resources.

Email: help@scottishwater.co.uk

Tel: 0800 0778 778

X: scottish_water

Website: www.scottishwater.co.uk

SGN

SGN own and operate Scotland’s gas distribution network, supplying almost 2 million homes with the gas necessary for heating and cooking. In Scotland, we employ more than 2000 employees who play a critical role in providing a safe and secure network.

Tel: 0800 912 1700

X: @sgngas

FB:/SGNgas

linkedin.com/company/sgn

People’s Postcode Lottery

Players of People’s Postcode Lottery have raised over £1.3 billion for charities across the country. Visit our stand to find out what players have funded in your constituency!

Email: PublicAffairs@postcodelottery.co.uk

Save the Children

Nearly one quarter of children are affected by poverty in Scotland. With our programmes and campaigns, we amplify the voices and experiences of children, young people, parents and communities and provide opportunities to challenge and solve poverty. 0131 527 8200 infoscotland@savethechildren.org.uk

X: @SaveChildrenSCO

Website: www.savethechildren.org. uk/what-we-do/childpoverty/uk-childpoverty/scotland

Stalls located outside exhibition areaa 47-53

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

X: @YSINational

FB:/YSINational

Instagram: /YSINATIONAL

SNP Black, Asian & Minority Ethnic (BAME)

Meet the SNP affiliate for Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic members. Working to increase diversity, representation & engagement in politics. Together, we aim to create strong independence support within BAME communities across Scotland.

Email: snpbame@hotmail.com

X, FB and Instagram: @snpbame

49

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: outforindy.scot

50

Moray SNP

Enter our Speyside Whisky raffle for a chance to win premium bottles from Scotland’s finest distilleries. Discover the rich flavours of this renowned whisky region. Prizes await whisky enthusiasts and collectors. Visit our stall and try your luck!

51

SNP Trade Union Group

The official SNP group for trade union members, and the party’s largest affiliate. Promoting independence among workers and trade unionism within the SNP. For economic and social justice, a green industrial/Just Transition strategy, and full powers for Scotland.

X: @TUG_SNP

Follow and message there

52

Disabled Members Group (DMG) Represent the Disabled Members of the party.

Email: snpdmg74@gmail.com

Social Media: @SNP_dmg

Exhibitors

SNP Socialists – Ukraine Solidarity Campaign Scotland

USC Scotland campaigns in solidarity with grassroots Ukrainian labour organisations for Ukrainian victory against Russian imperialist aggression.

SNP Socialists campaigns For an Independent Republic, System Change & more left-wing SNP policies. We include NEC members, trade unionists, councillors, MPs & MSPs.

Email: uscscotland@gmail.com / snpsocialists@gmail.com

07927436269 (Graham SNP Socialists) 07538 419339 (Peter USCScotland)

FB: /USCScotland X: SNP_Socialists Website: ukrainesolidarity.scot snpsocialists.wordpress.com/memberships

Advocacy Public affairs Communications

Tell stories that matter. Gain influence. Make an impact.

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 an engine for growth, investing billions in the UK to double our renewable generation capacity and modernise our electricity network. We’re building new grid infrastructure, on and offshore wind, solar, battery, and green hydrogen – ready for the increasing demand for more green, secure, and affordable energy. And we’ve created over 1,000 new green jobs and much-needed supply chain contracts to get there quicker.

Fringe Programme

Fringe Meetings

Friday

30 August EARLY

AFTERNOON

Friday 30 August

Lowther Room - Level -1

EICC

12h30 - 13h30

Public good for public money? reforming financial support for tree planting and forestry

Afforestation is seen as a key measure in the fight against climate change, with the capacity to deliver additional benefits for biodiversity and people. The RSE undertook an independent inquiry into public financial support for tree planting and forestry and concluded the current funding regime needs reform in order to maximise collective benefit, particularly at a time of exceptionally constrained public finances. This panel will examine the report’s main recommendations and consider how Scotland can support truly multi-functional forests.

Speakers:

Professor Ian Wall FRSE

Professor Pat Monaghan FRSE

Dr Alessandro Gimona

Emma Harper MSP

Chair: Professor James Curran

Friday 30 August

Menteith Room - Level -1

EICC

12h30 - 13h30

Councillors’ reflections on local democracy

Whilst local democracy has many challenges, local councillors are working hard for their local communities and supporting political leadership in their local areas. Yet they continue to face many obstacles. In short, they are ‘striving to thrive’ against the challenges of the role. APSE’s latest research finds that many of the known challenges of being a local councillor continue to frustrate them, and in many ways have arguably been made worse by the continuing demands on services in the face of limited resources and inflationary pressures. Come share your views and thoughts on this important topic.

Speakers:

Elena Whitham MSP

Cllr Lynne Short, Dundee City Council and Chair of APSE Scotland

Friday 30 August

Tinto Room - Level 0

EICC

12h30 - 13h30

Fuel poverty: a long-term problem needs a long-term solution – making the case for a social energy tariff

Join Advice Direct Scotland, Scotland’s national advice charity, for a discussion on the impact that the introduction of a social energy tariff could make to address fuel poverty. The panel will explore the support available for those at risk of failing into debt because of high energy bills and inflation.

Speakers:

Alasdair Allan MSP, Acting Minister for Climate Action

Conor Forbes, Director of Business Development and Policy, Advice Direct Scotland

Ellie Wagstaff, Senior Policy Manager, Marie Curie

Friday 30 August

Kilsyth Room - Level 0

EICC

12h30 - 13h30

Paving the way: how can Scotland tackle pensioner poverty?

With more and more older people without enough to live on, an ageing population and projections of increasing pensioner poverty - what can Scotland do?

From short-term interventions to a long-term strategic plan – a renewed focus on pensioner poverty is desperately needed. Can Scotland lead the way by becoming the only nation in the UK to have a pensioner poverty strategy? And longer term, could the introduction of a Minimum Income Guarantee herald an end to poverty across all ages?

Join us as we discuss how to create a poverty-free future for the older people of today and tomorrow across Scotland.

Speakers:

Kaukab Stewart MSP, Minister for Equalities

Joanna Elson CBE, Chief executive, Independent Age

Peter Kelly, Director, The Poverty Alliance

Fringe Meetings

Friday

30

August EARLY AFTERNOON

Scottish Police Federation

Friday 30 August

Carrick Room - Level +1

EICC

12h30 - 13h30

The future of Scotland’s police service and justice system

What is next for Scotland’s national police force and the nation’s approach to justice? Police officers provide a vital service every day to ensure we continue to have a safe, protected, and resilient Scotland, but they are under an intense workload pressure. Come and hear first-hand from our speakers about the future of policing in Scotland.

Speakers:

David Kennedy, General Secretary, Scottish Police Federation

Angela Constance MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Justice and Home Affairs

Chair: Chris Green

Friday 30 August

Harris 1 Room - Level +1

EICC

12h30 - 13h30

Navigating the Streets: Enhancing Accessibility in Scotland

Join Scotland’s leading visual impairment charities for a walk through of the challenges faced by blind and partially sighted people when navigating public spaces. Our panelists will share their direct experiences and those of visually impaired people as we delve deep on the challenges and solutions to create more inclusive and accessible streets in Scotland.

Speakers:

Helen Aluko-olokun, Policy Manager, Guide Dogs

Ellen Doherty, Sight Loss Council member

Caroline Hedley, Sight Scotland Rehabilitation and Mobility Worker

Michael Tornow, Guide Dog User

Jim Fairlie MSP

Chair: Criag Spalding, CEO Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans

Friday 30 August

Ochil Room - Level +1

EICC

12h30 - 13h30

Why Scotland Needs a Strong Human Rights Bill

Scotland can become a global human rights leader. Following the UNCRC (Incorporation) Act, the forthcoming Scottish Human Rights Bill is an opportunity to ensure everyone can name and claim their rights, be treated with fairness and dignity, supported by public services that fully realise their human rights. Join the ALLIANCE and Human Rights Consortium

Scotland to hear why a strong Scottish Human Rights Bill is so important, and about related work on human rights budgeting and the right to inclusive communication.

Speakers:

Karen Adam MSP

Lucy Mulvagh, Director of Policy, Research and Impact, the ALLIANCE

Mhairi Snowden, Director, Human Rights Consortium Scotland

Michael Heffernan, Rights Holder and Lived Experience Speaker

Chair: Sara Redmond, Chief Officer of Development, the ALLIANCE

Friday 30 August

Sidlaw Room - Level +2

EICC

12h30 - 13h30

Ending Scotland’s Housing Emergency

Scotland is in the grip of a devastating housing emergency which impacts people’s lives every single day. The Scottish Government has joined local authorities, Scotland’s housing sector and the STUC in declaring a Housing Emergency –but how do we turn words into action and see progress on tackling the emergency which traps 10,000 children in temporary accommodation across the country?

Join Shelter Scotland, the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations, Cllr Allan Casey and the Housing Minister, Paul McLennan, for a provocative discussion on how to fix Scotland’s broken housing system.

Speakers:

Alison Watson, Director, Shelter Scotland

Sally Thomas, Chief Executive, Scottish Federation of Housing Associations

Councillor Allan Casey, City Convener for Workforce + Homelessness & Addiction Services, Glasgow City Council

Paul McLennan MSP, Minister for Housing Chair: Emma Roddick MSP

Fringe Meetings

Friday 30 August LATE AFTERNOON

Friday 30 August

Lowther Room - Level -1

EICC

16h30 - 17h30

Stepping up: how Scotland can deliver a rapid and just transition away from fossil fuels

The International Energy Agency has said unequivocally that there can be no new fossil fuels. The newly elected Labour government in Westminster has said it won’t issue any new oil and gas licenses. The transition away from fossil fuels is inevitable. It offers great opportunities, but clear, funded, worker and community-led plans are urgently needed to ensure it is fair to every worker, community and country. The Scottish government must step up on this most crucial of issues. Come and hear what Scotland must do to end fossil fuels and play its part in a just transition here and globally.

Speakers:

Amiera Sawas, Head of Research and Policy, Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative

Tessa Khan, International Climate Change Lawyer and Executive Director, Uplift

Rosie Hampton, Just Transition campaigner, Friends of the Earth Scotland

Chair: Miriam Brett, Co-Director, Future Economy Scotland

CPAG in Scotland

Friday 30 August

Menteith Room - Level -1

EICC

16h30 - 17h30

Ending child poverty: good for children, good for our economy

Scottish government policies, including the Scottish child payment, are having a real impact on child poverty in Scotland. Yet 1 in 4 children are still locked in poverty, damaging children’s lives and costing the Scottish economy £2.4 billion a year. Join us to consider why further investment to end child poverty is essential not just for children’s wellbeing but for Scotland’s future economic success.

Speakers:

Kate Forbes MSP, Deputy First Minister

Satwat Rehman (One Parent Families Scotland), Claire Telfer (Save the Children) and John Dickie (Child Poverty Action Group).

Friday 30 August

Tinto Room - Level 0

EICC

16h30 - 17h30

Drawing a Line Under Poverty: Implementing a Minimum Income Guarantee in Scotland

In our wealthy nation, it’s unjust that so many people don’t have access to an adequate income.

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 potentially transformative idea, that would give everyone a secure foundation to build a life free from poverty.

Later this year, the Expert Group developing the proposal will publish their final report. But what are the next steps for implementation? Join us to explore policy priorities and how we can work together to make the Minimum Income Guarantee a reality.

Speakers:

Peter Kelly, Chief Executive of the Poverty Alliance

Emma Jackson, Social Justice Strategic Lead at Citizens Advice Scotland

Stephen Boyd, Director of IPPR Scotland

Collette Stevenson MSP

SNP Peterhead Branch

Friday 30 August

Moorfoot Room - Level 0

EICC

16h30 - 17h30

The Simple 3 Point Strategy to Deliver Independence.

Peterhead SNP is delighted to host a fringe event with Gordon MacIntyre-Kemp and the team at Believe in Scotland. Gordon will take us though Believe in Scotland’s strategy for delivering independence. We will hear how the political and grassroots arms of the independence movement can work better together and facilitate a new national conversation that can drive breakthrough levels of independence support and knock down Westmnsters barriers to Scotland’s Independence.

Speakers:

Gordon MacIntyre-Kemp of Believe in Scotland

Presentation by Gordon MacIntyre-Kemp followed by a Q&A panel with Believe in Scotland National Campaign Steering Group Members.

Chair: Karen Adam MSP

Fringe Meetings

Friday

30 August LATE

AFTERNOON

Friday 30 August

Kilsyth Room - Level 0

EICC

16h30 - 17h30

Powering the nation – unlocking Scotland’s green gas potential

Join SGN – Scotland’s gas distribution network, to discuss how Scotland’s natural resources present a unique opportunity to accelerate the production of green gas solutions to support the delivery of Scotland’s decarbonisation targets

Speakers:

Anthony Green - Future of Energy Director, SGN

David Maxwell, Policy Advisor, Future Biogas

Gillian Martin MSP, Acting Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy

Chair: Andy Phillip, Head of politics at DC Thomson

Friday 30 August

Carrick Room - Level +1

EICC

16h30 - 17h30

Determining Scotland’s Future

As we approach the 10th anniversary of the independence referendum, the Centre for Public Policy at the University of Glasgow asks what next for Scotland’s constitutional future? Is there a legal path towards a new independence referendum that could secure consensus across the constitutional divide? What would constitute a mandate for such a referendum? What additional constitutional powers and influence would restore the authority of the Scottish Parliament and help it to address the big policy challenges of our time? Join Stephen Gethins MP, Stephen Noon and Prof Nicola McEwen for a thoughtful and lively discussion. Refreshments available

Speakers:

Professor Nicola McEwen, Director of the Centre for Public Policy, University of Glasgow

Stephen Noon, Research Associate at the Centre for Public Policy & former Senior Policy Advisory to the first SNP Government

Stephen Gethins MP

Chair: Libby Brooks, the Guardian’s Scotland correspondent

Friday 30 August

Harris 1 Room - Level +1

EICC

16h30 - 17h30

The role of modern universities in delivering for Scotland’s economy and communities

This event will explore the crucial role played by modern universities in Scotland, delivering the critical skills and workforce necessary for a strong economy and communities

Speakers:

Professor Liz Bacon - Principal and ViceChancellor of Abertay University

Richard Lochhead MSP, Minister for Business

Professor Colm Harmon - The University of Edinburgh

Tracy Black - CBI Scotland

Chair: Nick Wright - Head of Public Affairs, MillionPlus

Friday 30 August

Ochil Room - Level +1

EICC

16h30 - 17h30

School Swimming and its role in keeping Scotland’s children safer in, on and around water

School swimming plays a vital role in Scotland in keeping our children safer in, on and around water. Not only does it equip children with vital basic swimming skills, but provides water safety knowledge and gives many children their first experience in water. Scotland has some of the highest drowning statistics in the UK and therefore giving every child the opportunity for school swimming is critical. We seek to inform party members of the need for long term investment and seek commitment and support for the roll out of the National Framework for Primary School Swimming to give every child the opportunity to be safer in, on and around water.

Speakers:

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

Hannah Miley MBE, Triple Olympian, World and Commonwealth Champion

Gordon Hunter, Aquatics Partnerships Manager, Scottish Swimming

Receptions Friday 30 August EVENING RECEPTIONS

SNP Westminster Reception

Kindly sponsored by:

Friday 30 August

One Space

Sheraton Hotel 17h30 - 18h30

Friday 30 August

Champagne Bar, Level -2 EICC

18h00 - 19h00

Green Groups Reception

Join Green Alliance, Stop Climate Chaos Scotland, The National Trust, The Wildlife Trusts, RSPB, WWF, Marine Conservation Society, CPRE, Woodlands Trust, Greenpeace, Uplift and Chester Zoo for an evening reception as we head into the most important parliament yet for climate and nature.

Speakers:

Gillian Martin MSP

Friday 30 August

One Space

Sheraton Hotel 18h45 - 19h45

SNP Diplomatic Reception

Kindly sponsored by: The Investment Association

Friday 30 August

One Space

Sheraton Hotel 20h00 - 21h00

SNP Media Reception

Kindly sponsored by: SGN

Continuing to champion social housing

Everyone deserves a safe place to call home. That’s why we’ve provided more than £18.5 billion to the social housing sector since 2018.

Helping Britain Prosper

Scan or search Lloyds Banking Group social housing

Fringe Meetings Saturday 31 August MORNING

Saturday 31 August

Lowther Room - Level -1

EICC

09h15 - 10h15

SNP Equalities Convener Hustings

We encourage you to attend the hustings for National Equalities Convener. Come along and hear from the candidates about why they are the ideal person for this office, their plans to address existing equalities issues, and an opportunity for members to ask questions - on topics that are most important to them.

MEMBERS ONLY

This event is organised by the BAME ConvenerShelly-Ann Brown, and YSI Chair - Steven Campbell

Saturday 31 August

Menteith Room - Level -1

EICC

09h15 - 10h15

Change Mental Health: Scotland’s Mental Health Strategy and Where We Go Next

Come join us to discuss the recent mental health strategy published by the Scottish Government and discuss the next steps for mental health in Scotland.

Speakers:

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

Jim Hume, Director of Public Affairs and Communications at Change Mental Health

Dr Clare Daly, Area Manager, Change Mental Health

Wendy Halliday, Director of See Me.

Saturday 31 August

Tinto Room - Level 0

EICC

09h15 - 10h15

Member Support Convener Surgery

A chance for branch office bearers to discuss matters affecting their branches or the party more broadly.

Speaker:

Alexander Belic, Member Support Convener

Saturday 31 August

Carrick Room - Level +1

EICC

09h15 - 10h15

25 Years of Devolution: What Next for Scottish Democracy?

After 25 years of devolution, there is much to discuss and debate. Come to this fringe to explore the impact of the Scottish Parliament, and what the future for democracy in Scotland might look like. We will explore themes around local democracy, new democratic innovations such as Citizens’ Assemblies and the constitution. There will be time for your own reflections and contributions.

Speakers:

Lesley Riddoch, Author and Broadcaster

Esther Roberton, Former Coordinator of the Scottish Constitutional Convention

Jamie Hepburn MSP, Minister for Parliamentary Business

Fringe Meetings Saturday 31 August MORNING

Saturday 31 August

Harris 1 Room - Level +1

EICC

09h15 - 10h15

Building better bus networks for Scotland

Better public transport benefits us all, but particularly those on low incomes. From getting to the GP, school or work, having fast, reliable bus options allows people to live their lives; as well as providing economic growth for our businesses. How do we ensure our streets are designed with public transport and active travel in mind as well as help deliver a reduction in car kms, build a healthier environment and help businesses? Join this panel event as we explore these key themes.

Speakers:

Fiona Hyslop MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Transport

Cllr Miranda Radley, Convener for Communities, Housing and Public Protection and ViceConvener of Net Zero, Environment and Transport at Aberdeen City Council

Duncan Cameron, Managing Director, First Bus Scotland

Sara Collier, CPT Scotland

Chair: Ross Martin (Adviser on Regional Economies)

Saturday 31 August

Ochil Room - Level +1

EICC

09h15 - 10h15

Beyond the School Gates: The Impact of Poverty on Access to Education

Barnardo’s Scotland and Magic Breakfast will lead a panel discussion on the impacts of poverty on children and young people’s ability to fulfil their full potential within Scotland’s education system. The event will examine the hidden barriers that poverty creates, including stigma and hunger, which limit educational attainment, reduce wellbeing, and prevent the full realisation of children’s rights to education. Joined by a member of Barnardo’s Scotland’s youth advisory group, and an SNP Representative, the panel will explore what can be done to ensure that the right support is available within schools, at the right time for children and families.

Speakers:

Dr Lindsey MacDonald, Chief Executive, Magic Breakfast

Martin Crewe, Director, Barnardo’s Scotland

Corrine Cunningham, Young Advisor, Barnardo’s Scotland

Jenny Gilruth MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills

Chair: Finlay Allmond, Scotland Policy and Public Affairs Manager, Magic Breakfast

Fringe Meetings

Saturday 31 August EARLY AFTERNOON

Saturday 31 August

Lowther Room - Level -1

EICC

12h30 - 13h30

Affordable Warmth: Lowering heating bills whilst tackling climate change

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:

WWF panellists will be joined by

Alasdair Allan MSP, Acting Minister for Climate Action

Robert McGaughey, Head of Smart Heat and Cities, ScottishPower

James Buchan, Retrofit Manager, Scarf

Saturday 31 August

Menteith Room - Level -1

EICC

12h30 - 13h30

Education at a Crossroads

The big issues in Scottish education are many and varied: recruitment & retention challenges; problems with pupil behaviour; excessive teacher workload; threatened budget cuts; proposed education reforms (including new national bodies to oversee education in Scotland). Come and hear Cabinet Secretary, Jenny Gilruth, and NASUWT National Official, Mike Corbett, outline these issues and suggest how they might be addressed.

Speakers:

Jenny Gilruth MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Education & Skills

Mike Corbett, National Official, NASUWT Scotland

Fringe Meetings

Saturday

31 August EARLY

AFTERNOON

Saturday 31 August

Tinto Room - Level 0

EICC

12h30 - 13h30

Scotland’s

Rail

Industry interview

with Scotland’s Rail (Transport) Secretary

The need for investment in Scotland’s railways has never been more crucial as passenger and freight numbers reach record levels. Please join RIA Scotland for a lively hour of informal interview-style discussion and debate about Scotland’s railways, led by Cabinet Secretary for Transport FIONA HYSLOP MSP along with Chair and Vice Chair of RIA Scotland’s leadership group CAMPBELL BRAID and LORNA GIBSON. The event will be chaired by former journalist and RIA Scotland Communications Manager DEVIN SCOBIE. Food and soft drinks will be provided for this popular lunchtime event and RIA Scotland looks forward to welcoming all SNP conference attendees.

Speakers:

Fiona Hyslop MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Transport

Campbell Braid, Chair of RIA Scotland’s Leadership Group

Lorna Gibson, Vice-Chair of RIA Scotland’s Leadership Group

Chair: Devin Scobie, RIA Scotland Communications Manager

Saturday 31 August

Kilsyth Room - Level 0

EICC

12h30 - 13h30

What next for environmental policy?

On land and sea, our natural environment makes Scotland what it is. But with climate change and nature loss requiring urgent action in this decade, how should the Scottish Government respond? Hear from leading environmental organisations on the action needed to protect Scotland’s environment.

Speakers:

Gillian Martin MSP, Acting Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy

Dan Paris, Advocacy Manager, Scottish Environment LINK

Arina Russell, Senior Policy Manager, WWF Scotland

Dr Paul Walton, Head of Habitats and Species, RSPB Scotland

Saturday 31 August

Moorfoot Room - Level 0

EICC

12h30 - 13h30

Protecting Consumers and Businesses: Building Trust and Confidence in Regulated Markets

With the SNP’s ambitions to strengthen regulation, protect consumers, drive innovation and speed up behaviour change, the discussion about how to restore confidence and fairness in key regulated sectors (from energy to communications) is critical.

Join Trust Alliance Group, Holyrood and our panel (government, industry and civil society) to explore how we can put consumers at the heart of this journey and deliver the necessary confidence in products and services.

Speakers:

Craig Wilson, Policy and Public Affairs Manager, Trust Alliance Group

Susan Murray, Director, David Hume Institute

Ivan McKee MSP

Graham Leadbitter MP

Chair: Louise Wilson, Political Editor, Holyrood Magazine

Saturday 31 August

Carrick Room - Level +1

EICC

12h30 - 13h30

Brain health research: How Scotland can lead the world

Hear from an expert panel on how science, medicine and policy in Scotland is reducing the impact of neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease. Through a unique partnership between the Scottish universities, Scottish Brain Sciences and Brain Health-ARC, Scotland now has an unrivalled opportunity to lead the world in this vital health area. Through early detection, lifestyle changes, and with the support of advanced medicine and research, it may be possible to treat and prevent conditions such as dementia –bringing hope for the future for families here in Scotland and across the globe.

Speakers:

Neil Gray MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care

Prof Craig Ritchie, CEO of Scottish Brain Sciences

Prof Frank Gunn-Moore, University of St Andrews

Prof Terry Quinn, University of Glasgow

Dr Alison Green, Scottish Brain Sciences

Fringe Meetings Saturday 31 August EARLY AFTERNOON

Saturday 31 August

Harris 1 Room - Level +1

EICC

12h30 - 13h30

A Right to Palliative Care

Too many people die without the palliative care and support they need. Terminal illness exacerbates existing inequity and the most vulnerable lose out. Rurality and diagnosis can decide whether people receive the care they require.

With an ageing population, more people living with multi morbidities and less resources to go round, the number of people missing out on vital palliative support could increase. Things have to change.

Join Marie Curie and sector stakeholders to discuss how we are campaigning for a “Right to Palliative Care” to ensure everyone has access to appropriate palliative care and support when they need it.

Speakers:

Amy Dalrymple – Associate Director of Policy and Public Affairs, Marie Curie

Bob Doris MSP – Convener of the Cross Party Group on Palliative Care

Richard Meade – Director of Devolved Nations, Carers UK

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

Saturday 31 August

Ochil Room - Level +1

EICC

12h30 - 13h30

A Timetable for Change: The Role of Universities

Robert Gordon University has an impressive track record for teaching quality, student satisfaction and for preparing graduates who are highly sought after by employers. Scotland’s post16 education and skills system is undergoing significant reform, but our universities still face significant financial challenges. The event is an opportunity to engage panellists on key questions, including: what do we need from our universities?; how can we ensure that our universities are delivering the critical skills that Scotland needs?; and do we have the right structures in place to ensure that our universities can deliver what is expected of them?

Speakers:

Graeme Dey MSP, Minister for Higher and Further Education

Professor Steve Olivier, Principal, Robert Gordon University

Vanessa Wilson, Chief Executive, University Alliance

Zoe Frieslick, Applied Social Sciences Graduate Chair: Councillor Christian Allard, Co-Leader of Aberdeen City Council

Saturday 31 August

Sidlaw Room - Level +2

EICC

12h30 - 13h30

Land reform, taxation and power: levers for reshaping Scotland’s land

This land is your land but huge swathes of Scotland has been dominated by large landowners and sport shooting interests –enabling unequal land ownership models to persist. In the meantime Carbon Credits are providing green finance, but can it be done better and for the public good instead of private profit? Join us at an opportune time – with an imminent new land reform bill – to discuss levers for progressive change which can be used to achieve transformational land reform for our people, wildlife and environment.

Speakers:

Max Wiszniewski (Campaign Manager for REVIVE)

Dr Helen Armstrong (Sustainable land use consultant at Broomhill Ecology)

Dr Craig Dalzell (Head of policy and research for common weal)

Kate Forbes MSP, Deputy First Minister

Chair: Eliza Chiswell

Saturday 31 August

Fintry Room - Level +2

EICC

12h30 - 13h30

Scotland Stands Up Against Racism and Islamophobia instigated by the Far Right

With the recent rise of the Far Right, it is now more important than ever to confront the rising tide of hate, particularly targeting our Muslim communities and those from diverse ethnic groups. This meeting aims to unite us in standing against these harmful ideologies, to discuss the impact of racism and Islamophobia in Scotland, and to explore ways to strengthen our communities through solidarity and action. Join us as we hear from Government minister, elected members, community leaders, activists, and those directly affected, with the goal of developing strategies to combat hate and promote inclusivity.

Speakers:

Kaukab Stewart MSP, Minister for Equalities

Cllr Graham Campbell - Glasgow City Council and SNP Socialists Co-Convener

Billy Singh - Show Racism the Red Card

Tabassum Niamat - prominent activist and Human Rights Coordinator

Fringe Meetings

Saturday 31 August LATE AFTERNOON

Saturday 31 August

Lowther Room - Level -1

EICC

16h30 - 17h30

Justice for Palestine

As Israel stands trial at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for plausible genocide, Palestinians urgently need your solidarity. Over 39,000 have been killed in the Gaza Strip, with the health system decimated. A further ICJ Advisory Opinion this year concludes that Israel’s ongoing occupation of Palestinian territory is unlawful, and in violation of the prohibition on racial segregation and apartheid. Join this SNP Friends of Palestine meeting, supported by Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC) and Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP), to hear the latest about what’s happening on the ground and what the SNP can do to achieve justice for Palestine.

Speakers:

Dr Mustafa Barghouti, Secretary General of the Palestinian National Initiative

Louise Regan, Chair of Palestine Solidarity Campaign

Nishat Choudhury, Medical Aid for Palestinians

Chair: Chris Law MP

UK Short Term

Accommodation Association

Saturday 31 August

Menteith Room - Level -1

EICC

16h30-17h30

Responsible Tourism for a Sustainable Future: Making Scotland the best visitor destination in the world

Join us for a discussion on what steps the Scottish Government should take to realise the ambition of making Scotland the best visitor destination in the world. Topics for debate include the opportunities and challenges facing the tourism and hospitality sector, regulation of short-term lets, the visitor levy, and how Scotland should market itself internationally.

Speakers:

Paul McLennan MSP, Minister for Housing

Andy Fenner, CEO, UK Short Term Accommodation Association

Carl Thomson, Public Policy Manager, Airbnb

Anna Morris, CEO, The Edinburgh Address; Pia Doering, Senior Policy Associate, Inline Policy

Saturday 31 August

Tinto Room - Level 0

EICC

16h30 - 17h30

Eradicating child poverty: What do the public think?

This event is an opportunity to hear about the current Save the Children and Joseph Rowntree Foundation research on public attitudes to child poverty and the policy solutions needed to reach the child poverty targets. We will reflect on what the findings so far mean for government, political parties and the action needed to reach the 2030 child poverty targets. All parties must build solutions to child poverty into their 2026 manifestos and can utilise this research to make policy changes based on strong evidence of public support.

Speakers:

Kate Forbes, Deputy First Minister

Mark Diffley, Founder and Director of Diffley Partnership

Talat Yaqoob, Consultant, Researcher and Campaigner

Claire Telfer, Head of Scotland for Save the Children

Chris Birt, Associate Director for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland for the Joseph Rowntree Foundation

Saturday 31 August

Moorfoot Room - Level 0

EICC

16h30 - 17h30

The Future of Health and Care: Workforce, Sustainability and Access to Care

Scotland’s health and care system is struggling to meet the growing demand for its services, with waiting times at record levels, high staff vacancy rates and low workforce morale.

In response to these pressures, Neil Gray MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care has called for a national conversation on the future of the NHS in Scotland, underpinned by the premise that services should be free at the point of delivery.

With this in mind, our panel will focus on how potential reform could help address ongoing workforce challenges, create a more sustainable system and ensure care is delivered at the right time, in the right place.

Speakers:

Eileen McKenna, Associate Director, Nursing, Policy and Professional Practice, Royal College of Nursing Scotland

Kenryck Lloyd-Jones, Public Affairs and Policy Manager for Scotland, Chartered Society of Physiotherapy

Professor Anita Simmers, Dean, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University

Neil Gray MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care

Chair: Chris Marshall, Deputy Editor, Holyrood Magazine

Fringe Meetings 31 August LATE AFTERNOON

Saturday 31 August

Carrick Room - Level +1

EICC

16h30 - 17h30

2030: Ending HIV Transmission in Scotland

Scotland could end new cases of HIV by 2030 and achieve a historic first: ending the onward transmission of a virus without a vaccine or a cure. Join Terrence Higgins Trust and Out for Independence as we discuss Scotland’s progress towards ending new transmissions of HIV in Scotland by 2030 and what action is needed to succeed in achieving this national ambition.

Speakers:

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

Richard Angell, Chief Executive at Terrence Higgins Trust

Emily Cheung, Co-Convener of Out for Independence

Saturday 31 August

Harris 1 Room - Level +1

EICC

16h30 - 17h30

The Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults Bill: compassion, choice, and safety at the end of life

Right now, too many dying people in Scotland are choosing between suffering unbearably as they die, paying the enormous cost of an assisted death abroad, or taking matters into their own hands behind closed doors. Dying people deserve better.

Liam McArthur MSP’s Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults Bill seeks to right these wrongs, bringing in stringent safeguards where currently none exist and providing choice and protection for dying people who urgently need it. Join our fringe to learn more about the multiple layers of protection in the Assisted Dying Bill, and how you can help change the law.

Speakers: Rona Mackay MSP

Professor Sam Ahmedzai, Emeritus Professor at The University of Sheffield

Alyson Thomson, Director of Dignity in Dying Scotland

Kate Buchanan, speaking from personal experience

Saturday 31 August

Sidlaw Room - Level +2

EICC

16h30 - 17h30

The importance of young activists in the SNP & wider independence movement

Join young members of the SNP as they talk about their experiences of activism within the party & independence movement; why they believe that young voters are key to winning the next election, and ultimately, Scottish independence.

Panelists:

Emma Roddick MSP - Member of the Scottish Parliament for the Highlands & Islands region & the youngest MSP elected in 2021

Steven Campbell - Convener of the YSI

Ellie Koepplinger - YSI activist & former board member of Yes Scotland

Jakob Haß - Activist with Jusos, the youth wing of the SPD in Germany

Chair: Olaf Stando, YSI International Officer

Saturday 31 August

Ochil Room - Level +1

EICC

16h30 - 17h30

How can a Homegrown Energy Transition Boost Skills and Investment in Scotland?

A homegrown energy transition has the potential to deliver much needed economic growth, support jobs and reduce our reliance on imports and, with the right support, UK offshore energy companies could invest £200 billion in it.

With time running out to meet Scotland’s net zero target by 2045, this session will explore how Scotland can: unleash its potential as a leader in a homegrown just transition; create an attractive investment environment which facilitates economic growth; and prepare the existing workforce for changes in the energy sector.

Speakers:

Professor Paul de Leeuw, Robert Gordon University Energy Transition Institute

David Whitehouse, CEO, OEUK

Stephen Flynn MP, Leader of SNP Group at Westminster

Chair: Mandy Rhodes, Editor, Holyrood Magazine

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Receptions Saturday 31 August EVENING RECEPTIONS

Saturday 31 August

Champagne Bar - Level -2

EICC

18h00 - 19h00

Reception

Hosted by HM Government of Gibraltar

Saturday 31 August

One Space

Sheraton Hotel

19h00 - 20h00

SNP Holyrood - Reception

Kindly sponsored by Scottish Power and WWF

Fringe Meetings Sunday 01 September MORNING

SNP Climate and Environment Group

Sunday 1 September

Harris 1 Room - Level +1

EICC

09h15 - 10h15

From Scotland to COP30

Hear what the UK and Scotland have to offer to the climate debate as we look forward to COP30, the “People’s COP” in Brazil in May 2025. Two speakers who know their stuff on the climate and environment issues of the day. 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 in from all across the country. To join, email secretary@snpceg.scot

We seek to inform and support party members, especially branch Climate and Environment Officers, and make sure of a fairer and greener future. All are welcome.

Speakers:

Chris Law MP

Graham Leadbitter MP

Roland Chaplain BA MRMetS

Lauth Press supported by the Scots Independent

Sunday 1 September

Carrick Room - Level +1

EICC

09h15 - 10h15

Book launch of Inside the Indyref - the Scottish Independence Referendum 10 years on by Pete Wishart.

To celebrate the release of Pete Wishart’s book, Inside the Indyref, marking 10 years since the independence referendum. Pete Wishart’s account takes the reader through the ups and downs and highs and lows of 2014’s independence referendum. Pete will be interviewed by Lesley Riddoch about his book before opening up to questions from the floor.

Speakers:

Pete Wishart MP and Lesley Riddoch with photos from the National Collective’s archive

Fringe Meetings Sunday 01 September EARLY

AFTERNOON

Sunday 1 September

Lowther Room - Level -1

EICC

12h30 - 13h30

Education matters

Andrea Bradley, EIS General Secretary and Jenny Gilruth MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Education & Skills, outline current and future issues facing Scottish Education. Followed by a Q&A session chaired by Allan Crosbie, EIS President.

Speakers:

Andrea Bradley, EIS General Secretary (tbc); Jenny Gilruth MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Education & Skills

Allan Crosbie, EIS President; Adam Sutcliffe, EIS Vice-President

Sunday 1 September

Menteith Room - Level -1

EICC

12h30 - 13h30

A Nature Positive Scotland: What Europe can Teach Us about Restoring Scotland’s Biodiversity

Scotland’s natural environment is a source of national pride, yet according to the Biodiversity Intactness Index Scotland remains one of the most nature depleted countries in the world.

Join RSPB Scotland’s Ailis Watt, Acting Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy Gillian Martin MSP, Professor Des Thompson, and Birdlife Europe and Asia Regional Director Ariel Brunner, as we discuss the health of biodiversity across Scotland and Europe, the steps that the EU has taken to restore biodiversity through its Nature Restoration Law, and what lessons Scotland can learn as we look to build a nature-positive future for generations to come.

Fringe Meetings

Sunday 01 September EARLY AFTERNOON

Sunday 1 September

Harris 1 Room - Level +1

EICC

12h30 - 13h30

How changing lottery laws can raise more funds for charities across Scotland

Join People’s Postcode Lottery, charity CEOs and leading SNP politicians as they discuss how changing lottery laws can raise more funds for Scotland’s charity sector.

Speakers:

Laura Chow, Head of Charities at People’s Postcode Lottery

Pete Wishart MP

Shirley-Anne Somerville MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice

Chair: Malcolm Fleming, Director of Public Affairs at People’s Postcode Lottery

Sunday 1 September

Tinto Room - Level 0

EICC

12h30 - 13h30

Changing Scotland: Why Trade Unions Are Key

A chance to examine the policy and political challenges facing the SNP and the cause of independence with some of Scotland’s leading trade unionists, and with members of the party’s largest affiliate group, the TUG. How can we build momentum towards transformational change in areas like economy and energy, land and tax, health, care and public services? What role are trade unions playing in defending the rights and needs of working people and communities? How do we further Scotland’s right to shape its own future as a modern, progressive, internationalist nation? More speakers to be announced.

Speakers:

Roz Foyer, General Secretary, STUC

Gordon Martin, Regional Organiser, RMT

Tommy Sheppard and Chris Stephens, Former MPs

Sunday 1 September

Ochil Room - Level +1

EICC

12h30 - 13h30

Innovation in higher education: Why is it important?

Join Universities Scotland for a panel discussion with representatives from the higher education sector and a leading Scottish spin out to discuss the importance of investing in higher education for economic growth. Scotland’s universities are home to worldrenowned research, where investment in teaching, innovation and research is central to driving social change and stimulating economic growth. Hear firsthand why investment in higher education matters as it supports emerging technologies and companies to thrive, and how we can create a world leading ecosystem for innovation to thrive across the country.

Speakers:

Nanik Ramchandani, CEO Lasting Asset & Royal Society Entrepreneur in Resident at Edinburgh Napier University (ENU)

Universities Scotland (TBC)

SNP Speaker - Tom Arthur MSP

Sunday 1 September

Moorfoot Room - Level 0

EICC

12h30 - 13h30

Organisers Discussion Session

The session is a discussion forum to cover feedback from recent campaigns and ideas/ suggestions on future campaigning. The session will begin with a short update on current activity from the Organisation Convener and HQ campaign staff. The session will also include a presentation from Gordon Guthrie. Gordon was integral to the development of activate and will present on a pathway for the development of a canvassing app. The session is open primarily to organisers, campaign managers, election agents and programmers interested in coding for the SNP.

Speakers:

Jen Layden, Organisation Convener

Gordon Guthrie, Senior Manager and Technologist

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 10h00 on Friday 30th August, 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, as it appears in the conference handbook. There will also be links to an electronic flyer if the candidate has submitted one. Paper copies of the flyers will also be available for reading at the HQ desk.

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 ‘allfemale’ 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 Policy Development Committee after these elections. The NEC will make arrangements to fill those posts after Conference. Any member interested in one of the vacant seats should contact the successful candidate for Policy Development Convener in the first instance.

Voting closes at 10h15 on Sunday 1 September. At that time, the electronic balloting system will stop accepting any more votes and Headquarters desk will cease accepting ballot papers.

The results of the elections will be posted on the member’s hub as soon as they are available.

Nominations

Nominations 2024

National Office Bearers

PRESIDENT

Graeme McCormick

Maureen Watt

NATIONAL TREASURER

Helensburgh

Aberdeen South & North Kincardine

Stuart McDonald Kirkintilloch UNOPPOSED

NATIONAL SECRETARY

Michael Gregori

John Haston

Alex Kerr

Adam Nols-McVey

Mid & Upper Nithsdale

Grangemouth

Glasgow Shettleston

Leith

ORGANISATION CONVENER

Jen Layden

Glasgow Shettleston UNOPPOSED

LOCAL GOVERNMENT CONVENER

Michelle Campbell

Katy Loudon

Norman MacLeod

Kelly Parry

Renfrewshire Riverside

Rutherglen & Cambuslang

Crossmyloof

Bonnyrigg & Loanhead

POLICY DEVELOPMENT CONVENER

Deidre Brock

Anum Qaisar

Leith Walk

Airdrie & Shotts

MEMBER SUPPORT CONVENER

Naz Anis-Miah City of Dunfermline

Alexander Belic

WOMEN’S CONVENER

Sally Donald

Katie Hagmann

Southside Central

Edinburgh Central

Newton Stewart

EQUALITIES CONVENER

Summer Chen Kirkintilloch

Sarah Cheung

David Galbraith

Sadie Matthews

Amber Roberts

Kanya Williams

BAME CONVENER

Shelly-Ann Brown

Kelechi Raphael

Edinburgh Central

East Kilbride

Wallace

Edinburgh Western

Dundee Pitkerro

Loudoun

Dundee City West

DISABLED MEMBERS’ CONVENER

Andy Stuart Westhill, Kintore, Blackburn UNOPPOSED

Nominations 2024

National Committees

ORDINARY MEMBER OF THE NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

(Two Parliamentarians to be elected)

Tom Arthur Johnstone & Elderslie UNOPPOSED

Ben Macpherson

Leith Walk 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

Viktoria Cameron

Tracy Carragher

Hamilton South

Coatbridge & Chryston

Emma Russell Falkirk South

OPEN

Viktoria Cameron

John Haston

Hamilton South

Grangemouth

Emma Russell Falkirk South

Stephen Shilton

Hamilton South

Allan Stubbs Coatbridge & Chryston

GLASGOW

ALL-FEMALE

Christina Cannon

Rachel Mackie

Alison Thewliss

Glasgow Maryhill & Springburn

Barrhead, Neilston & Uplawmoor

Glasgow Shettleston

OPEN

Christina Cannon

Glasgow Maryhill & Springburn

Gerry Chambers Blantyre

Alex Gill

Alex Kerr

Glasgow Shettleston

Glasgow Shettleston

Rachel Mackie Barrhead, Neilston & Uplawmoor

Norman MacLeod Crossmyloof

Alistair Shaw Govan

Alison Thewliss Glasgow Shettleston

HIGHLANDS & ISLANDS

ALL-FEMALE

Frances Murray

OPEN

Ian Cockburn

Ewan Hamilton

Munro Ross

LOTHIAN

ALL-FEMALE

Deidre Brock

Sinéad Collins

Fiona Constable

OPEN

Na h-Eileanan an Iar UNOPPOSED

Wester Ross

Holy Loch District

Inverness City

Leith Walk

Newington & Southside

Edinburgh Western

Deidre Brock Leith Walk

Sinéad Collins

Fiona Constable

David Gilchrist

Silas McGilvray

Donald Rutherford

Owen Thompson

Newington & Southside

Edinburgh Western

Edinburgh Central

Portobello/Craigmillar

Edinburgh Western

Bonnyrigg & Loanhead

Nominations 2024

MID SCOTLAND & FIFE

ALL-FEMALE

Auxi Barrera

City of Dunfermline

Alycia Hayes East Neuk & Landward

OPEN

Alycia Hayes East Neuk & Landward

Kieran MacNeil City of Dunfermline

Alyn Smith City of Stirling

Olaf Stando Inchkeith

NORTH EAST SCOTLAND

ALL-FEMALE

Dawn Black

Siobhan Tolland

OPEN

Sandeep Singh Arora

David Birkett

Dawn Black

Siobhan Tolland

Logan Unwin

Maureen Watt

SOUTH SCOTLAND

ALL-FEMALE

Ann Ferguson

Lyn Jardine

Deeside & Upper Donside

Dundee City West

Aberdeen South & North Kincardine

Peterhead

Deeside & Upper Donside

Dundee City West

Aberdeen South & North Kincardine

Aberdeen South & North Kincardine

West Dumfries

Dunbar

Viv Thomson Tweeddale

OPEN

Marshall Douglas Tweeddale

Ann Ferguson

Michael Gregori

Lyn Jardine

Fay Sinclair

Viv Thomson

West Dumfries

Mid & Upper Nithsdale

Dunbar

Central Borders

Tweeddale

WEST SCOTLAND

ALL-FEMALE

Michelle Campbell Renfrewshire Riverside

Summer Chen Kirkintilloch

OPEN

Michelle Campbell Renfrewshire Riverside

Summer Chen Kirkintilloch

Adrian Doherty Linwood & Craigends

Michael Gibbons Paisley Burgh

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

Declan McGavin Braes UNOPPOSED

GLASGOW

All-FEMALE

Shazia Babar Pollokshaws East UNOPPOSED

OPEN

Alexander Belic

Declan Blench

Southside Central

Glasgow Provan

Gerry Chambers Blantyre

John Peebles

Southside Central

Nominations 2024

HIGHLANDS

& ISLANDS

ALL-FEMALE

Susan Thomson Na h-Eileanan an Iar UNOPPOSED

OPEN

Peter Cairns Dingwall & District

Rob Gibson Cromarty Firth

LOTHIAN

ALL-FEMALE

Catherine Williams City of Stirling

OPEN

Simon Barrow Leith

MID SCOTLAND & FIFE

ALL-FEMALE

Alycia Hayes

East Neuk & Landward

Sharon Trish Strathearn

OPEN

John Beare

Alycia Hayes

Mid Fife & Glenrothes

East Neuk & Landward

Sharon Trish Strathearn

UNOPPOSED

NORTH EAST SCOTLAND

ALL-FEMALE

No nominations

OPEN

Alan Petrie Peterhead UNOPPOSED

SOUTH SCOTLAND

ALL-FEMALE

No nominations

OPEN

Roland Chaplain Castle Douglas & Glenkens

Stewart Dickson Tweeddale

Cameron Greer Annandale & Eskdale

Fay Sinclair Central Borders

WEST SCOTLAND

ALL-FEMALE

Summer Chen Kirkintilloch UNOPPOSED

OPEN

Ian Gallagher Bearsden South UNOPPOSED

OUTWITH SCOTLAND

Matthew MacLeod London UNOPPOSED

Nominations 2024

CONFERENCES COMMITTEE

ALL-FEMALE (FIVE to be elected)

Temisan Atsegoh

Shazia Babar

Christina Cannon

Emma Hendrie

Erin Lux

Kirkcaldy

Pollokshields East

Glasgow Maryhill & Springburn

Glasgow Shettleston

Paisley Burgh

Catherine Williams City of Stirling

OPEN (FIVE to be elected)

Temisan Atsegoh

Shazia Babar

Alexander Belic

Christina Cannon

Douglas Daniel

Stewart Dickson

Jérémie Fernandes

Patrick Grady

Cal Haston

Emma Hendrie

Erin Lux

Norman MacLeod

Alan Petrie

Kilian Riley

Munro Ross

Olaf Stando

Craig Walker

Kirkcaldy

Pollokshields East

Southside Central

Glasgow Maryhill & Springburn

Aberdeen South & North Kincardine

Tweeddale

Elgin

Glasgow Kelvin

Dalkeith & District

Glasgow Shettleston

Paisley Burgh

Crossmyloof

Peterhead

Glasgow Provan

Inverness City

Inchkeith

Mid Fife & Glenrothes

Catherine Williams City of Stirling

MEMBER CONDUCT COMMITTEE

NINE to be elected

Shazia Babar Pollokshields East

Ann Ballinger Cumbernauld

David Birkett Peterhead

Declan Blench Glasgow Provan

Douglas Daniel

Aberdeen South & North Kincardine

Allan Dorans Ayr South

David Galbraith East Kilbride

Emma Hendrie Glasgow Shettleston

Christopher Lunday Barrhead, Neilston & Uplawmoor

Lynn Mowatt

Rob Munn

Mid Fife & Glenrothes

Leith Walk

Alex Orr Meadows/Morningside

John Peebles

Munro Ross

Allan Stubbs

Southside Central

Inverness City

Coatbridge & Chryston

Owen Thompson Bonnyrigg & Loanhead

Logan Unwin Aberdeen South & North Kincardine

Elaine Wylie Perth St Johnstoun

CONDUCT APPEALS COMMITTEE

SEVEN to be elected

Roderick Campbell Meadows/Morningside

Tracy Carragher Coatbridge & Chryston

Summer Chen Kirkintilloch

Sean Ferguson

Dovydas Kuliešas

David McDonald

Lachlan McNeill

Stephanie Melnick

Glasgow Cathcart

Govan Kingston

Eastwood

Glasgow Shettleston

Southside Central

FRINGE EVENTS AT SNP

Protecting Consumers and Businesses: Building Trust and Confidence in Regulated Markets

Saturday 31 August

12:30-13:30

Moorfoot Room

FOOD AND REFRESHMENTS

How Can a Homegrown Energy Transition Boost Skills and Investment in Scotland?

Saturday 31 August 16:30-17:30

Ochill Room

FOOD AND REFRESHMENTS

The Future of Health and Care: Workforce, Sustainability and Access to Care

Saturday 31 August | 16:30- 17:30

Moorfoot Room

FOOD AND REFRESHMENTS

Education Matters EIS FRINGE MEETING

Andrea Bradley, EIS General Secretary and Jenny Gilruth MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Education & Skills, outline current and future issues facing Scottish Education. Followed by a Q&A session chaired by Allan Crosbie, EIS President.

Sunday 1st September

Venue: Lowther Room, Level - 1, EICC

Time: 12.30pm - 1:30pm

Speakers: Andrea Bradley, EIS General Secretary

Jenny Gilruth, Cabinet Secretary for Education & Skills

Allan Crosbie, EIS President

Biographies

Biographies

Naz Anis-Miah (City of Dunfermline)

Councillor, Westminster candidate and Independence Podcaster. Passionate about driving membership, bringing value to members and activists. Deliver a clear strategy to raise national campaign funds.

Sandeep Singh Arora (Aberdeen South & North Kincardine)

My vision for inclusive Scotland is aligned with SNP vision and would like to contribute towards further strengthening of SNP in North East of Scotland.

Temisan Atsegoh (Kirkcaldy)

Committed to contributing meaningfully to our National Conference and Council, I offer strong organisational skills and dedication. Vote for reliable and impactful service.

Shazia Babar (Pollokshields East)

Re-elect me: A committed SNP and community activist with profound knowledge of internal party processes, dedicated to passionately advocating for equality, fairness, and independence.

Ann Ballinger (Cumbernauld)

Retired TU GS with extensive experience of Professional Conduct issues. A lifelong SNP voter & elected councillor I have been actively involved since 2013.

Auxi Barrera (City of Dunfermline)

As member of the National Executive Committee, I will uphold our shared values, ensuring effective governance through honesty and dedication.

John Beare (Mid Fife & Glenrothes) Innovation/Detail. Been engaged in Policy Development for more years than I care to remember, never sought election to the PDC, now is the time.

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.

David Birkett (Peterhead)

It’s impossible to be from further North East than Me, therefore it makes perfect sense that I should be the NE Rep.

Dawn Black (Deeside & Upper Donside)

Committed to stand and be heard to ensure the change in approach and governance needed to move forward from recent events and election results.

Deidre Brock (Leith Walk)

We need members invigorated to freshen up our policy offering - to win in 2026 and go on to secure our independence. I’ll enable that.

Shelly-Ann Brown (Loudoun)

Your BAME Convener seeking Re-election. Oversaw WM BAME campaigns, developed mentoring/ internship program, secured additional funding and column opportunities in The National. Determined to continue serving.

Peter Cairns (Dingwall & District)

Three years H&I Rep on the PDC. Standing a fourth time leading up to Holyrood 2026. Chair of H&I policy group.

Viktoria Cameron (Hamilton South)

Objective, strategy and coordination to inspire, educate and prepare our Nation. Independence is the answer, we must drive the crucial questions. Clock’s ticking, time’s precious.

Michelle Campbell (Renfrewshire Riverside) Independence will be achieved with focus and attention to detail. We must deliver in local government outcomes for our communities; a crucial step to Independence.

Roderick Campbell (Meadows Morningside)

Convener of Edinburgh Southern SNP. Former MSP for North East Fife. Current Convener of the Conduct Appeals Committee. Qualified advocate, arbitrator and mediator.

Christina Cannon (Glasgow Maryhill & Springburn)

Putting members’ voices, ideas and concerns at the heart of the NEC so we can get back to winning ways & towards independence.

Tracy Carragher (Coatbridge & Chryston)

With extensive experience of operating within our party’s current structures I want to ensure necessary changes are implemented for the benefit of the SNP.

Gerry Chambers (Blantyre)

An effective Organiser and activist across many campaigns, I will bring considerable practical knowledge, skills and a fervour for Independence to the NEC.

Roland Chaplain (Castle Douglas & Glenkens)

I am passionate about the SNP’s response to the climate crisis nationally and globally. Have recent track record of 2 National Council remits back.

Summer Chen (Kirkintilloch)

Equalities is fundamental and crucial for all individuals. Collaborating together, united together, to reach significant milestones towards equalities is indispensable.

Sarah Cheung (Edinburgh Central)

Equalities is essential to our movement and needs to be maintained, especially in today’s ‘culture war’. Vote for me to ensure this isn’t forgotten.

Ian Cockburn (South West Ross)

Will speak for all areas of the region, Highland, Moray, Argyll & Bute, Western Isles, Shetland and Orkney. Hard work needed for 2026 Election.

Sinéad Collins (Newington & Southside)

I’ve enjoyed my time on the NEC and hope I’ve carried out my role sufficiently. I’ve attended all NEC meetings, and have facilitated Lothians meetings.

Fiona Constable (Edinburgh Western) Being Branch Secretary for Edinburgh West and three decades of teaching, will enable me to represent your views, to deliver a dynamic future for Scotland.

Douglas Daniel (Aberdeen South & North Kincardine)

I am literally Doug Daniel.

Stewart Dickson (Tweeddale)

I am well placed as the Organiser for Tweeddale. I liaise with the YES Groups in the Region and Believe in Scotland.

Adrian Doherty (Linwood & Craigends)

Hard-working branch and CA secretary since 2014 eager to sound out members in West Scotland and actively relay their opinions to the NEC as needed.

Sally Donald (Edinburgh Central)

We need more women in politics. Until then, we need the women who are in politics to feel safe and supported. That’s my goal.

Allan Dorans (Ayr South)

Former Detective Inspector Metropolitan Police. Previously professionally qualified HR Executive, Justice of the Peace. Former MP and member of HoC Standards and Privileges Committee.

Biographies

Marshall Douglas (Tweeddale)

Cllr, Marshall Douglas is an experienced office bearer, Convener of Tweeddale Branch. Totally committed to the cause of Independence.

Ann Ferguson (West Dumfries)

I kept the commitment made last year to restart the Regional Steering Committee and ensure the South of Scotland was represented on the NEC.

Sean Ferguson (Glasgow Cathcart) I currently have the privilege of serving as a Glasgow City councillor and have been a party member and diligent activist since 2015.

Jérémie Fernandes (Elgin)

As a dedicated Councillor, Secretary of the Moray SNP CA, and recent winning GE election agent, I bring proven activism, leadership, and experience.

David Galbraith (East Kilbride)

I am dedicated to promoting equality, inclusivity, and social justice within the Scottish National Party, ensuring every voice is heard and valued in our movement.

Michael Gibbons (Paisley Burgh) Activist, NHS worker, campaigning for competent, cooperative and kind governance for all members. Hoping to continue representing West at NEC. For independence, equality and Scotland.

Rob Gibson (Cromarty Firth)

Bold policies build support for Indy. My expert knowledge from Holyrood includes routes to deliver affordable homes, land reform and sustainable jobs. let’s do it.

David Gilchrist (Edinburgh Central)

I believe by being elected I can be a strong voice for Scotland in these troubling times and advocate for independence.

Alex Gill (Glasgow Shettleston) Passionate about Scotland’s future, I pledge to drive progressive policies, amplify members’ voices, and champion Independence with dedication. Together, we will build a stronger Scotland!

Patrick Grady (Glasgow Kelvin)

SNP National Secretary 2012-2016, MP for Glasgow North 2021-2024, Chief Whip Westminster Group 2017-2021.

Cameron Greer (Annandale & Eskdale)

I’m eager to take on the challenge of helping shape our party’s future at this critical time and providing a voice for younger members.

Michael Gregori (Mid & Upper Nithsdale)

As a father I want what is best for Scotland, I want to help the SNP wherever I can to secure a stable future.

Katie Hagmann (Newton Stewart) Empowering Women, Strategic Policy & Developing a programme of support are my priorities as your National Women’s Convenor. For more info email k.hagmann.SNP@hotmail.com.

Ewan Hamilton (Holy Loch District) Right now I am the co secatary of the SNP disabled members group and the a quality officer for the Holy Loch branch.

Cal Haston (Dalkeith & District)

After our gutting electoral loss last election, we have to become the party of popular ideas once more, and our agendas need to promote that.

John Haston (Grangemouth) I stand to work for the grassroots members with a promise to listen and work for you. I promise to uphold our constitution.

Alycia Hayes (East Neuk & Landward)

Activist since 1993, member since 1999. Seen it all. We have one objective: Independence. Independence any way we can.Vote for me, for renewed focus.

Emma Hendrie (Glasgow Shettleston)

Current Member Conduct and Conferences Committee seeking re-election to both Committees.

Lyn Jardine (Dunbar)

Regional voices have much to contribute to the party but needs dedicated representation. We’ve re-established regional group and want to continue to present your views.

Alex Kerr (Glasgow Shettleston)

Former Branch Convener, Glasgow SNP Convener and NEC member. Consistent advocate for reform of SNP to utilise power of our mass membership for Scotland’s independence.

Dovydas Kuliešas (Govan Kingston)

Incumbent member of appeals committee. An effective SNP is an SNP with a strong Code of Conduct - let’s clean up our act.

Katy Loudon (Rutherglen & Cambuslang)

Experienced Councillor, in Administration and Opposition. Local Government and services matter - we need strong representation for this sphere of government at national level.

Christopher Lunday (Barrhead, Neilston & Uplawmoor)

Local Councillor in East Renfrewshire Council. Branch Secretary of Barrhead, Neilston and Uplawmoor branch. Enthusiastic about improving the Member Conduct Committee process.

Erin Lux (Paisley Burgh)

PhD candidate, third-sector worker, New Scot, two-time OFI co-convener. Here to support good policy to win our independence.

Rachel Mackie (Barrhead, Neilston & Uplawmoor)

NEC needs new ideas from experienced activists. We need to change the party to achieve independence. I’m standing to help make this happen.

Norman MacLeod (Crossmyloof)

Vice Convener of the Association of SNP Councillors. We must have our candidates selected well in advance for the 2027 Council Elections.

Kieran MacNeil (City of Dunfermline) I will provide a new and youthful perspective to the National Executive Committee as a young member who is committed to shaping the SNP’s future.

Sadie Matthews (Wallace)

A motivated young voice driving forward social justice, human rights and platforming marginalised communities; building towards an independent Scotland that includes everyone.

Graeme McCormick (Helensburgh)

Managing Devolution is incompatible with delivering Independence. As President I will challenge every SNP politician to explain how their actions will deliver Independence by 2026.

David McDonald (Eastwood)

I am an experienced office bearer having served as Convenor, PEO and Organiser of my branch over the last decade.

Biographies

Silas McGilvray (Portobello/ Craigmillar)

I will continue pushing for better governance of the party and better communication with members in order to advance independence and good government for Scotland.

Lachlan McNeill (Glasgow Shettleston)

Advocate (Retired). Convener SNP Glasgow Shettleston CB. First Convener of Disciplinary Committee under the 2004 Constitution.

Stephanie Melnick (Southside Central)

Re-elect Melnick for Appeals. Committed to ensuring a cohesive party through fair processes that enable members to feel heard and considered while maintaining party discipline.

Lynn Mowatt (Mid Fife & Glenrothes)

Activist, Branch Secretary and Councillor, with values and skills that support the belief that disciplined member conduct is paramount in displaying our best public image.

Rob Munn (Leith Walk)

Independence campaigner. SNP organiser. Former councillor. Conduct and discipline within the party is paramount.

Adam Nols-McVey (Leith)

I’ll champion respectful debate and serve each and every member without fear or favour, with a strong focus on governance to help us achieve independence.

Alex Orr (Meadows Morningside)

A privilege to continue to serve the SNP in any way I can, furthering the cause of independence through having a strong party.

Lauren Oxley (Clydebank)

Active party member of 7+ years and SNP Councillor. With experience in various office bearer positions, I’ll always be a strong voice for local members.

Kelly Parry (Bonnyrigg & Loanhead)

Councillor for a decade, Council Leader and former COSLA Spokesperson. Be barry, vote Parry #1.

John Peebles (Southside Central)

Member for 10 years looking to make a contribution further than my Branch for a better stronger Democratic Scotland.

Alan Petrie (Peterhead)

Time for fresh ideas and real debate.

Anum Qaisar (Airdrie & Shotts)

I’ll work to ensure that Members are empowered to shape SNP policy. - Former MP for Airdrie and Shotts - Previously a Modern Studies Teacher.

Kelechi Raphael (Dundee City West)

As BAME Convener, I will amplify diverse voices, foster inclusive policies, and strengthen our commitment to equality. Together, let’s build a more inclusive SNP.

Kilian Riley (Glasgow Provan)

Good conferences lead to good policy, and good policy is the key to winning our independence. Lets make that happen!

Amber Roberts (Edinburgh Western)

As Equalities Convener, if elected, I shall work hard to make sure everyone is treated equally regardless of Race, Gender or Disability.

Munro Ross (Inverness City)

Elect a committed and experienced activist at all levels for over 30 years. Still active trade unionist in retirement, longtime community council chair. Retired accountant.

Emma Russell (Falkirk South)

As a dedicated experienced activist, I feel I will be able to bring a much-needed fresh grassroots perspective as the party continues its restructure.

Donald Rutherford (Edinburgh Western)

I am an active and experienced campaigner, and will work tirelessly to listen to, and support our branches, ensuring our members’ voices are heard.

Alistair Shaw (Govan) INDEPENDENCE. I’m an Activist, Govan Convener, Organiser, Election Agent and Parliamentary staffer. I will give the NEC my experience to help bring us Independence.

Stephen Shilton (Hamilton South)

40 year career in education (31 as HE Careers Adviser). Active in Hamilton SNP for over 35 years. Integrity, transparency, accountability and independence.

Fay Sinclair (Central Borders)

Bringing experience (party member 18yrs, councillor 9yrs), energy and drive, I’ll roll my sleeves up and get stuck in working for a better Scotland.

Alyn Smith (City of Stirling)

The Party is in trouble, I cannot walk away, we need to fix it. Activist 1996. The Party membership must step up and take charge.

Olaf Stando (Inchkeith)

Our party now needs to modernise, refocus on our core mission, and reconnect with voters. Vote for an experienced activist to help us do that.

Allan Stubbs (Coatbridge & Chryston) Depute Leader/Treasurer NLC SNP Council Group, Convener/Organiser Coatbridge/Chryston CB, held various local, regional and council roles, SNP member since 2001.

Alison Thewliss (Glasgow Shettleston)

Glasgow Councillor/MP for 17 years, experienced on the NEC, would like to contribute as a Glasgow regional representative.

Owen Thompson (Bonnyrigg & Loanhead)

Former MP, long time activist and previous member of member conduct and disciplinary committee.

Viv Thomson (Tweeddale)

I am an experienced TU activist and will actively represent members on the NEC, ensuring that their voice is heard as we move towards Independence.

Siobhan Tolland (Dundee City West)

As current NEC rep, I will continue raising Northeast interests, ensure we implement the governance review, and help build a reinvigorated strategy for independence.

Sharon Trish (Strathearn)

Critical year for SNP policy, member engagement and connecting with the independence movement. I bring focus, experience and energy for this endeavour.

Logan Unwin (Aberdeen South & North Kincardine)

We need young voices at the heart of our party. I can be that young voice.

Biographies

Craig Walker (Mid Fife & Glenrothes)

Member for 16 years. Elected Councillor approaching 10 years. Want to do more for our party to finally win Independence and achieve our dream.

Maureen Watt (Aberdeen South & North Kincardine)

Through all the lows and many more highs, of 50 years membership we must be ready to seize every opportunity to achieve independence.

Catherine Williams (City of Stirling) Women’s Officer for the City of Stirling Branch and Stirling Constituency Association. Keen to utilise my experience to assist in the development of party policy.

Kanya Williams (Dundee Pitkerro) I joined SNP, after a five-year carefully tested assessment. The area of equality, in the black communities is left untapped in Scottish Politics.

Elaine Wylie (Perth St Johnstoun)

Current MCC convener, member of disciplinary/member conduct committee for 20 years. Office bearer at many levels. Party discipline is vital – now more than ever.

Reports

Reports 2024

CONFERENCES COMMITTEE REPORT

Lorna Finn, Convener Conferences Committee

Delegates will note a rather different shape to the agenda for this year’s Annual Conference. As anticipated at the time of drawing up the Provisional Agenda just after the General Election was called, there was a need to find space to reflect on the result and look forward to how the Party can refocus its energy going forward to 2026, as well as how we address the need for independence with a new government at Westminster, following years of Tory intransigence to the will of the people of Scotland for another referendum.

As well as a session dedicated to that discussion, there’s also separate time to look at the not-unconnected progress on the Governance and Transparency work begun in 2023. There are also four hour-long slots dedicated to policy areas that will be crucial as we look towards the 2026 manifesto and setting out what we believe an independent Scotland can look like.

All of that means that the number of submitted policy resolutions that have made the final agenda is lower than usual. The timing of the election being called meant that the number of submissions was lower than usual this year, and I know that a number of branches were unable to meet to further discuss policy proposals once the campaign was underway. As unfortunate as it is, the fixed deadlines for publication of the Provisional and Final Agenda meant that it was impossible to extend deadlines beyond the election period.

Our thanks as ever go to those who did take the time to submit resolutions. There were 87 submissions in total. The Committee took the position that those resolutions that would be impacted by the outcome of the election should be set aside. Likewise, specific internal rulebook changes that could be overridden by wider constitutional changes brought forward to National Council or Conference were not taken on this occasion. Of the 33 resolutions taken for the Provisional Agenda, 11 were chosen for the Final Agenda following the Delegate’s Choice exercise. In addition, an enabling resolution from the National Executive Committee will be taken during the internal session, which would extend the powers of National Council to adopt constitutional amendments arising from the Governance and Transparency Review.

REPORT FROM DEPUTE LEADER

Keith Brown MSP

As the Depute Leader of our Party, my focus continues to be on providing support for colleagues, including the Party Leader at a uniquely difficult time for us. This includes the excellent work done by the National Treasurer in getting Party accounts and finances on a stable footing, the work of our National Secretary in organising Party leadership contests and the work of our National Organiser in a challenging Westminster election. For a number of months, I undertook the role of Campaigns Director and was succeeded in that work by Stewart Hosie.

In addition, I have undertaken media responsibilities across Scotland and as far afield as Nottingham and Kent! Most recently, at the request of the Party Leader, I have led on meetings of candidates and election agents involved in the General Election, including in the South of Scotland and in Edinburgh.

I continue to attend the regular diet of important internal meetings: of the NEC, of National Conference, Conference Committee etc, and I regularly travel across Scotland to attend CA and Branch meetings - most recently in support of candidates and campaigns for the General election.

Notwithstanding recent challenges, I remain committed to working with all members who share the mission of our Party Leader: to lead the campaign for the democratic renewal and electoral success of our Party and our collective goal of independence.

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 have the opportunity of asking questions of the reports of National Office Bearers during Session 3 on Saturday morning.

Standing Orders

01 Quorum

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.

02 Preparation of Agenda

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

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,

(v) rejected in favour of other resolutions, and

(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

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.

03 Undischarged Business

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.

Standing Orders for National Conference

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.

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.

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.

7.5 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.

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.

Standing Orders for National Conference

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.

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”.

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

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

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.

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.

10 Dissent

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

11 Suspension of Standing 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.

or gift a subscription to a friend or relative

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Published bi-monthly, Independence magazine is available in print form only and makes a great present for a friend or relative.

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Floor Maps

Essential Information

Essential Information 2024

Conference sessions will be taking place in the Lomond Auditorium, EICC, Edinburgh. Please use the venue’s main entrance on arrival at the SNP Annual Conference.

Friday 30 August 09h00 - 17h00 10h00 - 12h30 14h00 - 16h30

Saturday 31 August 09h00 - 17h00 10h15 - 12h30 14h00 - 16h30

Sunday 01 September 09h00 - 16h00 10h15 - 12h30 14h00 - 16h15

ADMISSION

The EICC has a security check at the main entrance. If you bring a bag, security staff may request to inspect its contents. Any bag larger than A4 size will be required to be checked into the cloakroom. To save time, consider only bringing essential bags.

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:

Friday 30 August 12h30 - 13h30 16h30 - 17h30

Saturday 31 August 09h15 - 10h15 12h30 - 13h30 16h30 - 17h30

Sunday 01 September 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.

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 EICC, Edinburgh.

QUIET ROOM

The Quiet Rooms are situated in the Business Centre, Level 0 of The EICC, Edinburgh. These are open access rooms 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.

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.

Essential Information 2024

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 EICC, Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh International Conference Centre 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.

• Induction Hearing Loops: Available on site.

• Accessible Seating: Please speak to a steward or member of staff if you require assistance.

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

• Quiet Room: Located in the Business Centre, Level 0 of The EICC, Edinburgh. 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.

• 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 speaker’s 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.

Essential Information 2024

LOCAL INFORMATION

Travel

By Bus: Edinburgh’s primary bus terminal is at St Andrews Square, offering connections across the UK. For routes, visit: National Express or City Link. For local services, check Lothian Buses.

By Train: Edinburgh boasts two railway stations, Check Scot Rail or Trainline for more information:

Waverley Station: 1.3 miles from EICC, with direct routes nationwide.

Haymarket Station: Just 0.4 miles from EICC, serving commuter and UK routes. Check with your provider for stops.

By Tram: Edinburgh Trams operate between Airport and York Place. Closest stop to EICC is at Haymarket Station. Visit Edinburgh Trams website for details.

Walk from Haymarket Station: Exit Haymarket Station, head east towards pedestrian crossing, walk straight up Morrison Street to find EICC on the left.

Accessible Parking

Accessible Parking near the EICC

Dedicated accessible parking spaces are available in the following facilities:

• Sheraton Hotel Car Park located 150 meters from the EICC, with limited accessible parking spaces

• Semple Street Car Park located 300 meters from the EICC

• Castle Terrace NCP Car Park located 650 meters from the EICC

In addition there is on street parking on Morrison Street near the EICC’s main entrance and in surrounding streets, such as Gardner’s Crescent, which is free and without time limit for Blue Badge holders.

GUIDE FOR FIRST TIMERS

The Annual 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 EICC, Edinburgh 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.

• The Exhinbition Hall is host to a number of organisations, both internal and external to the SNP, all of whom are there to engage with SNP members. Conference attendees are strongly encouraged to visit this area as it is a lively and essential part of the Conference experience.

Essential Information 2024

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’s 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’s 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.

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.

St Andrew’s Awards Dinner 2024

Glasgow Marriott Hotel at 500 Argyle Street, Glasgow, G3 8RR will host the biggest event in the Party’s social calendar on Friday 22nd November 2024.

BOOK NOW

Tickets will be available at £90 per person. Independence magazine subscribers receive a £10 discount on their first two tickets. Reserve your place(s) by emailing events@snp.org

SNP ANNUAL AWARDS 2024

Nominations are open. The following awards will be presented on the night.

n Branch of the Year

n The John Clark Activist of the Year Award

n The Calum Cashley Staffer of the Year Award

n Councillor of the Year

n Parliamentarian of the Year

n Lifetime Achievement Award

n Special Recognition Award

Submit one nomination for each category, email events@snp.org

Deadline for submissions is 9am on Monday 7th October. Tickets will be dispatched in October/ early November. Should unforeseen circumstances result in the cancellation of the event, the cost of all tickets will be fully refunded.

Friday 22nd November

Both the St Andrew’s Awards Dinner and the SNP Awards are kindly sponsored by renewable energy producers Community Windpower and we thank them for their continued support.

CLASSIC SNP POSTERS

Suitable for framing and complete with numbered certificate

EWING

To celebrate the 90th Anniversary of the founding of the Scottish National Party (1934-2024) we have searched through our archives and chosen some of our most iconic and muchloved posters to reproduce as collectable items suitable for framing. Each poster is available as one of only 90 produced, is numbered and comes with a numbered Certificate of Authenticity. All proceeds will go toward future Independence campaigning. You can purchase and/or order the first two of these from the SNP HQ desk at Conference where you may also see and pre-order any other design.