John Swinney pledges to work with new PM on 'areas of mutual interest'

John Swinney, Scotland's First Minister, has pledged to work with the new Prime Minister on "areas of mutual interest." Swinney spoke with Sir Keir Starmer on the phone on Friday evening, marking a potential shift in the relationship between the Scottish and UK governments. The conversation between Swinney and Starmer comes as Boris Johnson steps down as Prime Minister and Sir Keir Starmer takes over the helm of the Labour Party. This change in leadership has opened up the possibility of a more collaborative approach between the Scottish and UK governments. Swinney, who is also the Deputy First Minister of Scotland, expressed his willingness to work with Starmer on issues of common concern. This signals a departure from the strained relationship between the Scottish government and the previous Prime Minister, who clashed on matters such as Brexit and Scottish independence. While Swinney did not reveal specific areas of mutual interest, it is expected that topics like COVID-19 recovery, climate change, and constitutional matters will be on the agenda. The Scottish government has been vocal about its desire for greater autonomy and has called for a second independence referendum. Working with Starmer, who has indicated a more empathetic stance towards the devolved nations, could prove beneficial for the Scottish government's aspirations. The conversation between Swinney and Starmer is seen as an early indication of the relationship between the new Prime Minister and the Scottish government. In the past, the relationship between the two entities has been characterized by tension and disagreement.