Overview

• Speaking at Labour’s conference in Liverpool, Anas Sarwar said he would not enter any post‑election arrangement with Reform UK and branded Nigel Farage a charlatan and a comedian.
• Sarwar said Scottish Labour will seek to form a minority administration after May 2026, arguing it is unlikely any party wins an outright majority at Holyrood.
• He stated he will lead the Scottish campaign and be the party’s candidate for first minister, with Keir Starmer expected to play only a supporting role.
• Sarwar intensified attacks on the SNP’s record, accusing the government of failing on the NHS, education and crime, and declaring its time in power is running out.
• He acknowledged polls still put Labour behind the SNP and noted Reform’s rise, while arguing voters will ultimately reject Farage’s party and that Labour has previously outperformed expectations.