MEP Ian Hudghton, President of the SNP, has passed the first hurdle to re-standing as a candidate in the European Parliament elections in June 2009.

 

At their Spring Conference in Edinburgh last weekend the Party selected seven individuals to go forward as prospective candidates, including present incumbent Ian Hudghton, who has represented the SNP in the Parliament for almost 10 years as an MEP.

 

Speaking afterwards Mr. Hudghton said: 

 

"I am delighted with this result.  The Party have chosen an excellent team to go forward to the next stage in the selection process, and I am looking forward to increasing the SNP team to represent the interests of Scotland in Europe."

 

"I will be happy to continue, building upon the efforts of my predecessor Allan Macartney and my previous colleagues in the European Parliament, Winnie Ewing, who was in the auditorium and Professor Neil MacCormick who is now Special Adviser to First Minister Alex Salmond."

 

"With Scotland gaining ever more confidence at home with the SNP Government, it is vital that on the European and world stage we have a strong voice.  It can no longer be the case that Scotland lies in the shadow of its neighbours at the negotiating table, and the SNP will continue to ensure we are heard at the heart of European governance."