SNP faces criticism over free school meals and rail fare decisions

John Swinney has faced significant criticism following two defeats at Holyrood regarding key policy decisions. The SNP's recent U-turn on extending free school meals to P6 and P7 pupils has drawn backlash, as it contradicts their previous manifesto pledge. This decision, along with the reintroduction of peak rail fares, has been attributed to a public spending crisis, which has raised concerns among opposition parties. The Conservatives, supported by Labour, the Greens, and the Liberal Democrats, successfully brought motions against Swinney's administration, highlighting the growing discontent with the SNP's governance. The halt in the rollout of free meals is particularly contentious, as it affects many families relying on this support. The SNP ministers have indicated that financial constraints necessitated these changes, but critics argue that this undermines the party's commitment to social welfare. The forthcoming price hikes for commuters further exacerbate the situation, leading to increased frustration among the public. The results of the votes are not binding, yet they signal a troubling trend for the SNP, which is already grappling with internal challenges, especially after the Greens were dismissed from government by Humza Yousaf. The opposition's united front against the SNP's decisions suggests a potential shift in the political landscape, as parties rally to address public concerns. As the SNP prepares to pass a budget amidst this turmoil, the implications of these defeats could have lasting effects on their governance and public support. The party must navigate these challenges carefully to restore confidence among constituents and maintain its political standing.