SCOTTISH First Minister John Swinney made the SNP’s pitch to the STUC today, pledging to work to build consensus on council tax reform over the next parliament.

The SNP leader opened his address with flattery, stating: “I’ve seen up close the contribution that you have made during some of the biggest challenges that I’ve dealt with in government — during the financial crash, the Covid pandemic, the cost-of-living crisis and much more. 

“You’re the vital link between Scotland’s working people and their government. 

“We will not always agree, but as first minister, I will always listen to the case that you advance.”

Seeking to put distance between himself and Reform after the latter’s Scottish leader Malcolm Offord claimed that his Labour counterpart Anas Sarwar had sought a deal to lock the SNP out of power, he told delegates: “I will have absolutely no truck with Nigel Farage or his cronies in Scotland.

“There will be no deals with them, no backroom conversations. I will use every power and opportunity at my disposal to lock Farage out of any influence at Holyrood.”

On the growing cost-of-living crisis, he argued that the “UK government is so focused on the latest Westminster psychodrama drama that they are asleep at the wheel,” insisting: “I am not afraid to take on vested interests.

“That is why I will use public health powers to introduce a maximum price for essential food items.”

After general secretary Roz Foyer promised a summit on replacing the regressive council tax, Mr Swinney promised to give “high priority” to seeking an early cross-party agreement on tax reform with trade unionists at the table.

Closing his pitch to workers, he said: “This is the offer I make to trade union members in this election: a government committed to working with a thriving trade union movement for a fairer Scotland, bold action on the cost of living, cheaper public travel, expanded childcare and support for people trying to buy a house. 

“A commitment to investing in and renewing our public services, a government which prioritises sustainability and growth in which everyone feels the benefit, not just a few at the top.

“Experienced, trusted leadership in tough times and the right for people in Scotland to choose their own future with independence.”