The SNP has published its manifesto ahead of the Scottish Parliament election on Thursday 7th May 2026, setting out its plans on the NHS, cost of living support, housing and independence.
First Minister John Swinney launched the document with a focus on improving public services while continuing support for households facing rising costs.
A central pledge is a major programme of NHS investment, including at least £10 billion over the next decade for infrastructure, alongside measures aimed at reducing waiting times and expanding access to GP services.
The party says it will guarantee that no patient waits longer than 26 weeks for treatment by the end of the next parliament and plans to expand walk-in GP centres and increase staffing across the health service.
On the cost of living, the manifesto includes proposals to introduce price caps on essential food items such as bread, milk and eggs, alongside a nationwide £2 cap on bus fares.
It also commits to maintaining free prescriptions, dental and eye care, as well as continuing winter heating support and wider benefits already in place.
Housing is another key area, with the SNP pledging to deliver 110,000 affordable homes by 2032. The manifesto also includes a £10,000 scheme to support first-time buyers with deposits and proposals to strengthen tenants’ rights.
In education, the party says it will maintain teacher numbers, expand support for pupils with additional needs and introduce a national ban on mobile phones in classrooms. Free university tuition will continue.
The manifesto also includes plans to expand childcare provision, with a commitment to provide year-round support from nine months old through to the end of primary school.
On the economy, the SNP has pledged to deliver 150,000 apprenticeships and continue support for businesses, while also introducing new measures aimed at attracting investment.
Energy policy focuses on expanding renewable generation and meeting Scotland’s net zero target by 2045, while ruling out the development of new nuclear power stations.
The manifesto also confirms that, if the SNP secures a majority at Holyrood, it would seek to hold another referendum on Scottish independence.
The Scottish Liberal Democrats are expected to publish their manifesto on Friday 17th April, completing the main party policy launches ahead of the election campaign.
The Scottish Parliament election takes place on Thursday 7th May, with parties continuing to publish their manifestos in the run-up to the vote.