The SNP-Green government has been slammed for debating independence again during limited Scottish Parliament business time before the recess starts this week.

Highlands and Islands MSP Jamie Halcro Johnston described the move as a “disgrace” when the chamber could have been used to debate A9 dualling, ferries, the need for new hospitals, pressure on GPs and dentists and how to help the NHS.

He said: “It is utterly ridiculous that, once again, the SNP and Greens are prioritising their political obsession with independence over all the other things we could – and should – be using this important chamber time to cover.

“With the dualling of the A9 kicked into the long grass and our ferries network in crisis, we could have been debating transport. With the need for new hospitals in Fort William and Lerwick, improved services on Skye, and pressure on GPs and dentists right across the Highlands and Islands, we could have been debating health issues and how to deliver the NHS we need.

“With our farmers and crofters waiting for clarity over future support for the sector, we could have been debating agriculture and rural issues. Or how to support our coastal communities, not threaten their futures with a blanket approach to HPMAs.

Want to see more SNP fails? – Health Matters