SNP in talks to hold on to leadership
The Scottish National Party are battling to form Highland Council’s new administration and say talks with other parties today were "encouraging".
Councillor Maxine Smith, who was tipped to become the future council leader, said the shock decision by the Liberal Democrats to quit the SNP-Lib Dem-Labour administration last night did not necessarily mean the SNP would be shunted into opposition.
She said: "After speaking to colleagues from across the political divide I am optimistic that we can form a new administration and that the work that we have undertaken for the Highlands can continue."
Richard Laird, the SNP’s deputy leader in the council said: "The responses we have received from colleagues across the chamber have been encouraging.
"It is apparent that only the Liberal Democrats have a problem with the SNP and the other members of the council are more concerned about what is best for the people of the Highlands than with party-political groups."
The Liberal Democrats left the administration last night saying they could no longer with the "muzzled" SNP.
David Alston, Liberal Democrat leader, said: "We retain our respect for many individual members of the SNP but have deep concerns about the way in which they are being muzzled by their own party.
"We are entering into discussion with other groups with a view to forming a new coalition. We have found it increasingly difficult to work with the SNP in the Highland Council as effective partners."
Councillor Carolyn Caddick insisted the move was being taken in the best interests of the Highlands.
She said: "We have not been able to speak out as individuals because we were in adminustration with them. A number of us found that frustrating."
