‘Cringeworthy’ think tank gave Scottish Labour MPs £100,000

Almost half of the Scottish Labour MPs have accepted substantial donations from a think tank that has drawn criticism from party leader Anas Sarwar. The organization, Labour Together, has been labeled a “fringe group” by Sarwar, particularly after its director, Josh Simons, made a controversial suggestion that people smugglers should be relocated to Scotland. This proposal emerged during discussions about the UK government's contentious plan to deport illegal immigrants to Rwanda. Records indicate that Labour Together, previously led by Morgan McSweeney, who is now a key political strategist at No 10, has contributed £10,000 to 17 of the 37 newly elected Scottish Labour MPs over the past year. This financial support has raised eyebrows within the party, especially given the group's recent statements and the implications of their proposals. Sarwar has publicly distanced himself from Simons and the think tank, emphasizing that he does not endorse their views. The situation highlights a growing tension within the party regarding the influence of external organizations and the appropriateness of their funding, particularly in light of sensitive issues surrounding immigration and public sentiment. As the Labour Party navigates these challenges, the controversy surrounding the donations and the think tank's proposals may impact its public image and internal cohesion, prompting calls for greater scrutiny of funding sources and their alignment with party values.