Longest-serving SNP MP brands election message 'unhelpful'

The SNP's most senior MP, Pete Wishart, criticized the party's election stance to make Scotland "Tory free" as unhelpful, insisting that he would respect all voters' decisions in his constituency.

Even Nicola Sturgeon's ex-advisor, Liz Lloyd, admitted confusion over the message and its ability to resonate with voters, particularly in areas where Labour might gain ground. She suggested the SNP concentrate on economic issues rather than the independence debate for the election.

Later, SNP's Humza Yousaf affirmed his support for Michael Matheson, the former health secretary who has been under scrutiny for a large data roaming charge incurred on a parliamentary iPad.

Despite breaches of conduct and ongoing investigations, Matheson's MSP position remains secure, with Yousaf noting the importance of facing consequences for mistakes without necessitating resignations.