Government of Scotland

Part of Opposition Day – in the House of Commons at 7:25 pm on 27 January 1988.

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Photo of Alex Salmond Alex Salmond Deputy Leader, Scottish National Party 7:25, 27 January 1988

No, I am not giving way again. I have already given way twice.

Unless Labour Members are prepared to challenge the Government's mandate, they are condemning themselves to a long period of futile opposition. It is correct that, for the time being at least, Labour dominates Scottish politics, but its domination of Scottish politics is as nothing compared with the Conservative party's domination of politics in the south of England. In the south-east of England there are 108 seats outside London: 107 are held by the Conservative party, and Labour holds one seat. South of Birmingham, outside London, Labour holds three seats. That is the reality of the political balance within the United Kingdom. It is almost inconceivable that over a generation Labour could achieve the United Kingdom mandate which the hon. Gentleman wants.