John Swinney has “staked his reputation on winning independence”, the SNP deputy leader has said, after the party voted for the First Minister’s strategy to break away from the UK.

Keith Brown said the SNP leader was “brave” for “putting everything” on the strategy.

Under the proposals, which were passed with substantial support on Saturday at the party’s conference in Aberdeen, an SNP majority at next year’s election would be required for another vote.

During a speech at the conference, Mr Swinney predicted his party would “win big” at the 2026 Holyrood election.

Asked by reporters whether the First Minister was tying his leadership to his ability to win a majority at next year’s election, Mr Brown said: “That’s why I said he was brave. It is brave.

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“I’ve never seen a move

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