LABOUR SHOULD BE WORRIED, SAYS POLITICS LECTURER

According to Dr Thomas Lundberg (above middle) of Glasgow University, reported in the Press and Journal, rising support for the SNP could mean it would win Labour seats in the Westminster election. He thinks many of the SNP’s new followers are disillusioned Labour supporters, unhappy with the joint platform with the Conservatives during the referendum campaign.

Dr Lundberg said that many of the new members are disillusioned with Labour and pointed out the numbers of people who have been filmed online burning their Labour membership cards.

“There has been a shift to the left for the SNP which means really big problems for Labour and campaigning so much with the Conservatives isn't going to do them any favours” he said.

The politics lecturer said the intervention of Gordon Brown at the end of the campaign might have helped the party a bit, but there would be what he described as a “reaction” if Holyrood did not receive significant new powers.

Dr Lundberg  warned that there could be problem for Nicola Sturgeon, when she takes over as leader, because many of the party’s new members want another referendum right away. 

He pointed out that the party would have to manage expectations, but if they could get significantly more devolution and could show that that might well lead to independence then that could satisfy the majority.

He also said that although the SNP have their problems, the kind of problems they have are the kind other parties would kill for.

Membership has soared by 52,000 to 77,000 in the last two weeks and local meetings have been packed and overflowing.

THE ROOTS OF SCOTTISH NATIONALISM

In September 2014, the Scottish people will be presented with a referendum on Independence. But what do Scottish Nationalists believe and how has the argument developed over Scotland's History? 

Professor Murray Pittock of Glasgow University, author of "The Road to Independence?" (2014) explores the growth of Scottish Nationalism from Scotland's prehistory, through Union with England, the Scots contribution to the British Empire, and the Salmond Government of today. 

Scottish Nationalism is the force which may end the Union with England and propel an independent Scottish state on to the world stage. Here is the story of how it has grown over the centuries.

This series is on BBC radio 4 at 1.45 pm every day this week, or can be listened to on the iplayer at the link above (worldwide).

The first part was today and very interesting. I recommend it.