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The Art Of Noise

Posted on June 27, 2025 by

Genuinely, can anyone tell us what the heck this actually means?

Because to us, it’s just meaningless quacking to fill a void.

It’s very short, so let’s transcribe the whole thing.

“I want to do spectacularly well in the 2026 election, that’s what my sights are on.”

Well, duh. And there was us thinking you wanted to get thrashed and end your career in humiliation. We’re not told what would constitute “spectacular” – though presumably at a minimum such a hyperbolic term would require some sort of improvement on 2021’s outcome – but perhaps the First Minister has lower standards, we can’t tell.

“I want to deliver a significant advance on my political arguments for independence in the 2026 election.”

Wait, what? A “significant advance” on your ARGUMENTS? You want to make your ARGUMENTS a lot better? You’ve been an SNP MSP for 26 years, been through a three-year campaign for an actual independence referendum, and more than a decade AFTER that you still haven’t got your ARGUMENTS together yet? What? WHAT?

“That requires me to do spectacularly well. So that’s what I’m focused on.”

Pardon? You can’t make your arguments unless you do “spectacularly well” in the election? That’s not the order politics works in, John. Typically, parties win elections BECAUSE they’ve made their arguments convincingly.

What if you DON’T achieve that? What if you do poorly, or perhaps only do quite well? That means you suddenly somehow become incapable of improving your arguments? Because what, your brain stops working if you don’t have a majority? You’re sulking at the electorate? What?

The Holyrood Sources event was not a white-hot crucible of interrogation. It was an extremely cosy, chummy couple of hours (bordering at times on toe-curlingly twee) with a stage full of political-bubble insiders, sponsored by a whisky firm providing the speakers and audience with free booze. (At one point Geoff Aberdein said “this is all far too jovial for my liking”, jovially, which met with a jovial response from everyone, and he then proceeded to fearlessly grill Swinney on whether he’d been vocal enough about his successes.)

Swinney’s comments weren’t the panic response of a man sweating under pressure. They were the words of someone who didn’t give a toss about making sense, because it won’t make any difference to anything, because there are still enough gullible saps out there who’ll vote for a dogturd as long as it’s got a yellow rosette on it, and who don’t even actually much care that there’s zero chance of achieving independence by doing so.

Independence now only just squeezes into SNP voters’ top three priorities, and it’s 20-odd points behind the stuff they actually think is important, as well as only fractionally ahead of the likes of education and social care. Mostly they just like winning, no matter how thin and hollow and meaningless the victory is in practice.

(Ironically, of course, most of the things they want doing, like sorting out the economy, are reserved and could only properly be addressed with the powers of independence.)

But the truth is that no outcome of next year’s election will matter to anyone except the few dozen people who pick up the fat Holyrood paycheques and pension contributions, and their assorted hangers-on they’ll get to employ and/or issue patronage to. Whether the SNP win a majority, win and run as a minority, go into some sort of coalition or other deal with Labour, or whether some unforeseeable apocalyptic event results in a Unionist government, nothing will happen that brings independence one step closer.

The SNP gave up on any pretence to the contrary a long time ago, so it should come as no great surprise that they can’t even be arsed to speak in coherent sentences any more. ARGLE BARGLE WARGLE FLARGLE, that’ll do for the mug punters.

And folks, that’s you they’re talking about.

0 to “The Art Of Noise”

  1. diabloandco says:

    It is all such depressing ordure.

    Reply
  2. Ian McCubbin says:

    Well frurgle wurgle Swinney has reinforced my 1at vote goes to any other independence candidate standing.
    My regional list vote goes to Alba.
    End of SNP me thinks.

    Reply
    • Doug says:

      Swinney and the SNP hierachy are tractors.

      Reply
    • Rob says:

      Unfortunately not, most voters don’t really care about independence like folk do in this bubble.
      Most voters want appointments with their GP, energy prices lower, buses and trains to run on time. it doesn’t matter that some of these things are reserved, they are disillusioned with the mainstream parties and vote SNP as the “least” worse option left, most would simply not vote for alba or any other independence prioritising party.
      I think the Rev has it right, the SNP will still be the largest party in the SG, how much depends on just how badly or porrly they, and the other parties preform over the nexty year.
      Reform are likely to be the second biggest party unless they really drop the ball, not because they are any good but more because they would be the main “protest” vote against Labour and the SNP.

      Reply
      • sarah says:

        A dent could be made in the SNP vote IF the existence of Liberate Scotland was given publicity and IF Alba joined it. AND if the Manifesto for Independence was given publicity and ALL the independence parties adopted it.

        The clock is ticking but the politicians don’t care. How I loath the selfish incompetents.

  3. 100%Yes says:

    A vote for John the moron is a vote to guarantee Scotland will be in the Union until 2031.

    We ether destroy the SNP or let the SNP destroy Scotland that whats on offer, its that simple.

    Reply
    • Cactus says:

      “A vote for John the moron is a vote to guarantee Scotland will be in the Union until 2031.”

      – Many agree, with him as FM, it would be the status quo until 2031.
      – Under Swinney, many believe it’s status quo for another decade.
      – Many more now realise it’ll be two and a half decades of status quo (see below.)

      link to wingsoverscotland.com

      Reply
  4. 100%Yes says:

    See me I’m not voting SNP. I’ll be voting for Scotland.

    Reply
  5. sam says:

    Gawd he’s not coherent

    Discussion elsewhere on Irish reunification.The government should prepare for reunification and not be caught like Brexit.

    link to bwog.com

    Reply
  6. Alf Baird says:

    Well, ‘politicians are not intellectuals’; and a dominant national party elite ‘behaves like a gang'(Fanon).

    Reply
    • Confused says:

      An SNP Biker Gang would be interesting :

      The Sons of Mediocrity

      or

      Los Transidos

      Reply
  7. Confused says:

    O/T – but it’s not much of a topic is it, Swinney talking bollocks about nothing.

    I saw this and I thought : you couldn’t make this up

    link to archive.ph

    – reality overtakes satire, again

    let’s have a big Rev article for this : I suggest as title

    MI6 ANGLO NAZI BASTARDS DESTROY YOUR FREEDOM

    scot nats need to get some deep cover operatives in the door

    link to civilservicejobs.service.gov.uk

    Reply
    • Hatey McHateface says:

      Must try harder. Shoehorn DEW into your title somewhere.

      Reply
      • Confused says:

        stop being so lazy and read the article; grandad was a yookie who did a lot of yehudis

        but then, the child is not his parents and let’s not play the blame game, that’s what the jews always say

        – “the past is past, just forget about it, it was a long time ago …”

        an easy going and magnanimous people, for all the world to see, who don’t hold a grudge

  8. duncanio says:

    I think it translates to “gibber, gibber, quack, quack, wank”.

    Reply
  9. Sven says:

    Dearie me, who would have thought it. For those of us of a certain mature age it’s truly impressive to behold and listen to Mr Swiney’s lifelike impersonation of the late Professor Stanley Unwin.
    And here was me thinking he was just a talentless career politician with a proven record of failure.

    Reply
    • Oneliner says:

      Spectacleywell of the voteyfold. Ah, deepjoy indeed!

      Reply
  10. Ian says:

    The failure to get rid of those favouring the union within the SNP well before 2014 was when the big mistake was made. Since then, just like any organisation whose main tactic for success is to gain a monopoly position and then defend it all costs, the SNP have sought to block any possible threat to their unionist favouring control of a fake desire for independence. If there’s a better example of the enemy within I’d love to hear about it. The worst part is that it worked and was build on a legacy that they had fuck all to do with.

    Reply
  11. robertkknight says:

    Finbarr Swinney & his double entendres…

    “Fnarr fnarr, yack yack, indy indy, arf arf”

    Reply
  12. twathater says:

    What a condescending, patronising piece of excrement this tr@ itor to Scotland and Scots is, that he can sit there and spout this meaningless pish and drivel without a hint of guilt or shame for the unending devastation and betrayal his LIES and CORRUPTION have brought to the people of Scotland shows he has no conscience

    Yet there are still people who REFUSE to believe the mountain of available EVIDENCE that the current infestation within the Scum Nonce Party have no intention of seeking independence , because they DO NOT have the intelligence,integrity,ability or desire to achieve that greatness,their threat to the wm establishment is non existent, they can be ignored with impunity

    Reply
  13. socratesmacsporran says:

    You might have hoped, given what a success Swinney was as SNP leader, first time round, a half-way sensible party would have avoided accusations of serial madness, by not giving him a second shot at the top job.

    Reply
    • sarah says:

      They got rid of the Good Guys and they changed the party rules to permit self-identifying of disability in order to be top of the list candidates list and they changed the party rules so no normal member [nor Angus Brendan or Chris McEleny] gets anywhere having a really important topic e.g. independence discussed at conference and they changed the rules again after Graeme McCormick got enough support to stand as leader…

      So, socratesmacsporran, there’s no-one left with the nouse or the route to prevent the stitch up of installing J Swinney.

      Reply
      • Hatey McHateface says:

        Surely Swinney is doing a first-class job?

        It’s not his fault that nobody ever asked for the job description to be in the public domain.

  14. Mark Beggan says:

    Crack cocaine.? What else?

    Reply
  15. Mark Beggan says:

    Stay on the Downers John boy that shit ain’t doing you no good

    Reply
  16. Colin Dawson says:

    The only thing that will bring independence any closer is destroying the credibility of the SNP long before the 2026 Holyrood election and electing real pro-independence candidates instead. Could this happen? Theoretically, yes, if the independence movement mobilises and exposes the SNP as the unionists that they are. Will this happen? Doubtful. Even Liberate Scotland is still trying to do deals with the SNP to get them on board with their strategy to fast track independence. IMHO, they’re flogging a dead horse and would be better served destroying the credibility of the SNP.

    Reply
  17. TURABDIN says:

    « I want to deliver a significant advance on my political arguments for independence…»

    AI being so HOT with politicos, here’s what a bot has to offer:

    Delivering a significant advance on political arguments for independence involves several key components, including historical context, economic analysis, societal benefits, and strategic considerations. Here is a structured approach that incorporates academic rigor and scientific principles:

    1. **Historical Context**: Begin by examining the historical background of the region seeking independence. This involves understanding the origins of the desire for autonomy, any past attempts at secession or self-rule, and the role of colonialism, imperialism, or external influences that may have contributed to the current political landscape. Use historical data to show patterns of governance and the effectiveness of previous political systems. This can be supported by academic literature that discusses similar cases of independence movements and their outcomes.

    2. **Economic Analysis**: Present an economic argument that independence would lead to greater prosperity for the population. Use economic models such as comparative advantage, trade theories, and fiscal policy analysis to demonstrate how the region could benefit from self-rule. Compare the current economic conditions with those of similar independent nations and examine potential economic policies that could be implemented post-independence. Cite empirical studies and economic theories to substantiate claims regarding economic growth, job creation, and wealth distribution.

    3. **Societal Benefits**: Argue that independence would lead to improved social conditions, such as better education, healthcare, and cultural preservation. Discuss how an independent state could tailor policies to the unique needs of its people, fostering a sense of national identity and social cohesion. Use sociological and political theories to explain the importance of self-determination and the potential for increased political participation and civic engagement. Present data on social indicators from comparable independent nations to illustrate potential improvements.

    4. **Strategic Considerations**: Discuss the strategic implications of independence, such as national security and foreign policy. Analyze how the region could potentially enhance its defense capabilities, form alliances, and conduct international relations as a sovereign state. Consider the balance of power in the region and how independence might influence it. Use international relations theories such as realism, liberalism, and constructivism to frame the argument.

    5. **Legal and Political Frameworks**: Examine the legal aspects of secession and the establishment of a new state. Discuss the principles of international law, such as the right to self-determination enshrined in the United Nations Charter, and how they apply to the region’s case. Outline a political roadmap for the transition to independence, including the creation of a constitution, political institutions, and mechanisms for conflict resolution.

    6. **Environmental Impact**: Consider the environmental implications of independence. Would the new nation have greater control over its natural resources? Could it implement more effective environmental policies? Use environmental science data and ecological theories to argue for the benefits of sovereignty in managing natural resources and addressing climate change concerns.

    7. **Quantitative Analysis**: Where possible, employ quantitative methods to support arguments. For instance, use econometric analysis to predict the impact of independence on the economy, or conduct surveys to gauge public opinion and assess the potential for a peaceful transition. Present statistical data that illustrates the disparities in resource allocation, economic performance, or social outcomes between the region and the larger political entity it seeks to separate from.

    8. **Counterarguments and Rebuttals**: Address potential criticisms and counterarguments, such as concerns about economic instability, political turmoil, or the loss of resources shared with the larger entity. Use academic research to refute these claims and offer viable solutions to mitigate risks.

    9. **Implementation and Transition Plans**: Outline a detailed plan for the transition to independence, including timelines, milestones, and strategies for addressing potential challenges. This should be informed by case studies of other successful secessions and nation-building processes.

    10. **Conclusion and Recommendations**: Summarize the main points of the argument and present clear recommendations for action based on the evidence presented. This could include steps for achieving a peaceful and negotiated secession, strategies for building international recognition, and plans for initial governance structures.

    To ensure academic rigor, the argument should be grounded in a multi-disciplinary approach that combines insights from political science, economics, sociology, law, and environmental studies. It should also be supported by a robust review of existing literature, empirical evidence, and theoretical frameworks. Peer-reviewed journals, reputable databases, and credible sources should be used to substantiate claims, and the argument should be structured in a logical and coherent manner, with proper citations and references to established scholarly work.

    Furthermore, the use of scientific principles involves applying the scientific method to the analysis of the political situation. This includes formulating hypotheses, gathering data, conducting analysis, and drawing evidence-based conclusions. It is essential to remain objective, transparent about assumptions, and open to revising the argument in light of new information.

    By following this approach, you can construct a comprehensive and academically sound argument for political independence that is likely to be persuasive and informative to a broad audience.

    Happy to help!

    Reply
    • Sven says:

      Turabdin @ 08.50.

      Sorry, argument falls down; not even a single reference to what Post Colonial Theory suggests and the entire piece appears written in comprehensible, everyday understandable English.

      Reply
    • Stuart MacKay says:

      Alf. Your fired!

      Time to pick the the Ports and Transport portfolio once more. I’d be interested to hear what you think has changed in terms of Scotland’s prospects for becoming an intercontinental freight hub, given the recent difficulties, and changes in the way the world is being organised.

      Reply
      • Alf Baird says:

        Scotland’s strategic geographic location on the Great Circle Route has not changed, so we continue to hold that advantage for global transport & logistics.

        What we need is a national transport & trade strategy, like most independent states! But as all former colonies discovered, this is only likely after decolonisation and liberation.

        Until then most major infrastructure investment is focused largely on the Imperial metropolitan capital that the colonies serve, and less on developing the colonies themselves.

        link to scotlandspeaks.com

  18. Stuart MacKay says:

    Sounds like Swinney is, quite deliberately, setting himself up for spectacular failure. No doubt with the goal of getting an early push out to pasture, on full benefits, and compensation for emotional trauma for getting the boot. Who could ask for more?

    Rev., why bother with another exposé of how useless the SNP are. The SNP will only become irrelevant when everybody stops talking about them. Much like your stalker / No. 1 fan.

    Why not do a briefing on the Scottish Family Party, or the Scottish Socialist Party. Not all of their policies are totally bat-shit crazy, and it might be refreshing to know whether the fringe parties have change, or the trough, in mind. Besides, it would give Hatey and Ellis something different to pontificate on.

    Reply
    • willie says:

      Swinney is indeed setting up the SNP for a fall. That is what the SNP has been doing since Sturgeon took over.

      Swinney knows fine well how the party removed democratic member input. He know fine well how the SNP have actively thwarted all progress to independence. He know fine well how SNP membership has collapsed, how the party is on the edge of bankruptcy. Independence to the SNP is like socialism is to the Labour party.

      But the troughers continue on. They know they will not do well at the next election. That is their modus operandi to destroy the independence movement. That is what the SNP are about – and Swinney’s comments about wanting to do ” spectacularly well ” are a reflection of that strategy to continue as agents for the British establishment.

      Bought and sold for English gold, or perchance blackmailed by Kompromat as the Russians call it, the sooner the SNP are removed the better.

      Reply
    • 100%Yes says:

      I have no idea what percentage of the general public is aware of the SNP stance on Indy, I would presume its very low.

      The SNP is Scotland jailer, the party needs to be destroyed.

      Next years i’ll be chapping doors during the election and point out that Scotland has been submitted to the UN C-24 on decolonization and that the SNP is opposed to it and making it perfectly clear the SNP is only interested in themselves and Independence is even at the bottom of there to do list.

      Reply
      • Hatey McHateface says:

        Are you telling us that in April/May next year, the UN will still be dicking about trying to work out if Scotland is a colony or not?

        The way some of the posters on here write, I thought the UN would have us independent by Christmas.

  19. 100%Yes says:

    Can you explain as to why my post on Craig Murray recent visit to the UN aren’t being posted.

    If I’m breaking a rule, point me in the right direct.

    Reply
    • TURABDIN says:

      THE SNP indie radicals, assuming such actually exist, ought to have disposed of Swinney last year, now it’s strategically too late….TOO LATE, Scotland’s national motto?
      Perversely, the country could do with a Donald, someone who simply doesn’t give a damn what the conventional «great and good» thinks.
      MSIA, make Scotland independent again….and ignore all bots, machine & humanoid.

      Reply
  20. Peter A Bell says:

    Read Andrew Tickell in the Sunday National.

    “And thus the conventional political wisdom says – don’t give your enemies a large target. Be vague. Don’t commit.

    As far as possible, don’t specify. Deal in vibes instead. Speak of visions and moods and abstract goals. Talk about change by all means, but don’t overcommit. Maintain a tight political silhouette.

    Stay ambiguous.”

    Now listen to Swinney.

    Reply
  21. James Cheyne says:

    The above comments came from Carwyn Jones, former first minister of Wales.

    Reply


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