Labour conference sparks rivalry ahead of May elections

The rivalry between Scottish Labour and the Scottish National Party (SNP) has risen to new heights after both parties have drawn their annual conferences to a close, with the Holyrood elections fast approaching.

Ed Miliband, leader of the Labour Party in Westminster, attacked the SNP's approach to government in a speech to the Oban conference: "Narrow nationalism has nothing to offer the challenges of the 21st century. While we're fighting for jobs and hope, they are fighting to break up Britain ... Never has a party promised so much and delivered so little."

Commenting after the conference, Labour's Holyrood leader Iain Gray stated: "We have had a very successful conference and I am ready to serve as First Minister. I set out the key planks of our programme for reform and efficiencies such as the introduction of a National Care Service, a living wage of at least £7.15 for all public sector employees and an apprenticeship guarantee for all qualified youngsters.”

Reacting to Labour's policy pledges, the SNP's Westminster leader, Angus Robertson, MP, told members that Iain Gray had failed to explain how some policies will be paid for: "Labour plan to hit households and pensioners with a multi-billion pound tax bill to pay for their uncosted wish list.

"Only the Labour Party could think it acceptable to put forward plans that will cost every Scottish household £3,000. After ruining the UK economy they are planning to ruin the economies of every home in Scotland."

A recent poll conducted by YouGov for Scotland on Sunday found that SNP leader Alex Salmond remains the preferred candidate for First Minister with 41 per cent of the vote, opposed to Scottish Labour’s Iain Gray, who polled 24 per cent.

However, the poll also indicated that Labour has held onto its lead over the SNP. Voting intention figures put Labour at 40 per cent on the Holyrood constituency vote and 36 per cent on the regional list. The SNP lags behind on 34 per cent in the constituency vote and 31 per cent on the list.