John Swinney, the new first minister of Scotland, has said that Scottish independence “can be delivered” in five years.
Swinney was legally sworn in as Scotland’s seventh first minister at the Court of Session in Edinburgh on Wednesday morning, having become leader of the Scottish National Party following an uncontested race.
On Thursday, Swinney unveiled a largely unchanged cabinet but did appoint Kate Forbes, a former challenger for the SNP leadership, as his deputy. Forbes replaced Shona Robison, who also retained her role as finance secretary
It came after Forbes, who was tipped by allies to run for the leadership again, confirmed she would not stand to be SNP leader, thereby avoiding the need for prolonged contest.
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As part of Swinney’s cabinet reshuffle, the minister for independence role, created last year by former first minister Humza Yousaf, was also dropped.
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On Friday morning, asked if independence can be delivered in five years, Swinney told Sky News: “I think independence can be delivered in that timescale because the arguments for it are compelling.
“If we look at two of the biggest issues we face as a country in Scotland, the effect of the cost of living and the implications of Brexit.”
Earlier this week, Swinney said he would “seek, with respect and courtesy, to persuade people of the case for independence”.
Having just been confirmed as the new SNP leader, Swinney told supporters on Monday: “Today is the beginning of a new chapter in our party’s history — a chapter that will be about uniting, coming together and dedicating ourselves to the service of Scotland.”
Swinney, who previously led the SNP between 2000 and 2004, said he envisaged a country where “people have good jobs, the climate is protected, the vulnerable are lifted up and opportunity is available for all”.
He vowed to bridge divides and seek “common ground” with opposition parties as first minister.
Swinney added: “I will always seek, with respect and courtesy, to persuade people of the case for independence.
“All I ask of those that oppose that vision, is that they also act with the same courtesy and respect.
“That means independence is not a reason for them to refuse to work with us to build the economy, support jobs and improve the health service.”
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