Martin Docherty-Hughes appointed SNP Defence spokesperson

The Scottish National Party (SNP) recently announced the appointment of MP Martin Docherty-Hughes MP as its defence spokesperson.

Following almost half a decade on the House of Commons Defence Committee, Docherty-Hughes will now lead the party’s defence portfolio, a move that promises a renewed focus on Scotland’s role in European security.

In a series of tweets, Docherty-Hughes expressed his gratitude and excitement about his new role.

It’s a privilege to come on to the frontbench as the @SNPDefence spokesperson. After almost 5 years on @CommonsDefence I well know the challenges facing my new counterpart at @DefenceHQ: Scotland has a vital role to play in European security, before and after #independence 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🇪🇺

— Martin Docherty-Hughes 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏳️‍🌈🕊 (@MartinJDocherty) September 4, 2023

Amid growing international tensions, Docherty-Hughes also voiced his support for Ukraine, emphasising its relevance to broader global democracy.

“This is a time of huge challenge for our collective security: and I will continue to support giving the people of Ukraine whatever they need to defeat Putin’s aggression and return to their 1991 borders. Their struggle is a struggle for democracy everywhere,” he stressed.

Reiterating Scotland’s intrinsic ties to Europe, Docherty-Hughes noted, “Scotland is a European nation — you can’t tilt our islands of the North Atlantic off the European map. So while Labour and Tory keep their heads firmly in the sand, the SNP will be resolute in our calls for a comprehensive defence & security deal with the EU.”

#Scotland is a European nation — you can’t tilt our islands of the North Atlantic off the European map. So while Labour and Tory keep their heads firmly in the sand, @theSNP will be resolute in our calls for a comprehensive defence & security deal with the #EU🇪🇺

— Martin Docherty-Hughes 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏳️‍🌈🕊 (@MartinJDocherty) September 4, 2023

Drawing from personal experiences, Docherty-Hughes shared his deep respect for the military community and commitment to their welfare.

“And as someone from a forces family, I know the sacrifices those in uniform make to keep us safe: yet also how they have missed out on many of the basic obligations the state owes them as public servants. In this cost of living crisis, I’ll put personnel before platforms,” he promised.

Martin Docherty-Hughes’ appointment marks a new chapter for the SNP’s defence narrative. As Scotland grapples with its role in the broader European security landscape, all eyes will be on how Docherty-Hughes shapes the party’s strategic approach. Stay tuned for further insights and updates on this evolving story.

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