Scottish Green Party calls EGM to discuss future with SNP amid climate target controversy

The Scottish Green Party is facing a crucial decision on whether to continue its power-sharing agreement with the SNP after the Scottish government abandoned key climate change targets. Co-leader Patrick Harvie has called for an extraordinary general meeting to discuss the future of the party.

The decision to scrap the 2030 emissions target has sparked criticism from within the party, with some members questioning the effectiveness of remaining in government. Scottish Greens councillor Chas Booth expressed his disappointment and stated that he would vote to withdraw from the coalition.

The announcement of the vote comes at a time of growing tension within the party, with concerns raised about the direction of the government’s climate policies. The Rainbow Greens, the party’s LGBT wing, have started a petition questioning the future of the deal with the SNP, citing concerns about the impact on trans patients.

The vote of Scottish Green members will be binding, according to a party source, and will determine the party’s next steps in government. The Bute House agreement, which outlines areas of mutual interest between the Greens and the SNP, including climate change and economic recovery, will be a key focus of the discussion.

Critics of the coalition, including the Scottish Conservatives and Scottish Labour, have called for an end to the power-sharing deal, citing failures to deliver on key issues such as climate targets and green jobs. First Minister Humza Yousaf has faced pressure from within his own party to reconsider the agreement, with some calling for a return to the SNP’s original manifesto priorities.

The outcome of the vote will have far-reaching implications for the future of the Scottish government and its approach to tackling the climate crisis. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.