Labour MP Ian Murray has highlighted the considerable obstacles the Labour Party must overcome to win the Scottish parliamentary elections scheduled for May 2026.

Murray emphasized the harsh economic conditions and the fluctuating Scottish electorate as major challenges.

He stressed the need for the party to prove its capability in delivering on its promises if they hope to replicate their success from the recent Westminster elections.

At the Labour Party's annual conference in Liverpool, Murray underscored the importance of both the UK and Scottish Labour parties in achieving this goal.

He noted that while Labour has seen fluctuating fortunes in Scotland, recent progress was promising.

The party must secure around 50 seats in Holyrood to potentially form the next government, and surpassing the Scottish National Party (SNP) in the proportional voting system remains crucial.

Murray expressed confidence in making notable progress on key issues by 2026.

He also advocated for improved relations with the SNP, citing productive collaborations in various sectors such as energy, health, and higher education.

He acknowledged that the SNP's faltered push for a second independence referendum has shifted the political landscape, making cooperation easier.