Russell Findlay’s Keynote at Scottish Conservative Spring Conference 2026

Key Points

• Russell Findlay, the Scottish Conservative leader, delivered his keynote speech to party members at the Spring conference held at Murrayfield Stadium in Edinburgh.
• The event marks a significant gathering of the Scottish Conservative faithful amid ongoing political challenges in Scotland.
• Findlay addressed key party priorities, including economic recovery, NHS reforms, and opposition to SNP policies.
• He criticised the Scottish National Party (SNP) government for economic mismanagement and independence fixation.
• Findlay outlined the party’s vision for Scotland post-2026 elections, emphasising unionism and pragmatic conservatism.
• The speech highlighted internal party unity following recent leadership changes.
• Attendees included prominent Scottish Conservatives, MSPs, and grassroots supporters.
• The conference featured discussions on education, housing, and energy policy.
• Findlay called for a stronger Union and devolution reforms.
• Media coverage noted enthusiastic reception from the audience at Murrayfield.

Edinburgh (Edinburgh Daily News) February 21, 2026 – Russell Findlay, leader of the Scottish Conservatives, took centre stage at the party’s Spring conference at Murrayfield Stadium today, delivering a keynote speech that rallied supporters and set out a bold vision for Scotland’s future under Conservative leadership. The address, attended by hundreds of party faithful, comes at a pivotal moment as Scotland navigates economic pressures and political division. Findlay’s words underscored the party’s commitment to unionism, economic renewal, and holding the SNP accountable.

Who is Russell Findlay and Why Does His Leadership Matter?

Russell Findlay, a former investigative journalist turned MSP for Scotland West, assumed leadership of the Scottish Conservatives in late 2024 following a turbulent period for the party. As reported by Laura Kuenssberg of BBC News, Findlay stated:

“I am here to lead a party that fights for every corner of Scotland, from the Highlands to the Borders.”

His background in exposing corruption lends credibility to his attacks on the Scottish Government’s record.​

Findlay’s rise has reinvigorated the party, which has struggled electorally since the 2021 Holyrood elections. According to political editor Peter MacMahon of STV News, the Murrayfield event was

“a show of strength, with delegates applauding Findlay’s pledge to ‘put Scotland first, not separation’.”

This speech positions him as a key figure ahead of local and national contests.​

The leadership transition followed Douglas Ross’s resignation, amid controversies over his dual MP-MSP role. Findlay’s selection by party members signals a shift towards a more media-savvy, grassroots-focused approach.

What Were the Main Themes of the Keynote Speech?

Findlay opened his critique of the SNP, accusing them of

“frittering away Scotland’s wealth on constitutional obsessions while families struggle.”

As covered by David Clegg, political editor of the Daily Record, Findlay declared:

“Under the SNP, taxes rise, businesses flee, and waiting lists grow – it’s time for change.”

He cited official figures showing Scotland’s growth lagging behind the UK average.​

The speech detailed Conservative plans for tax cuts and deregulation to attract investment. Findlay promised: “We will scrap the SNP’s tourist tax and deliver a low-tax Scotland that works for workers.” This resonated with business delegates at Murrayfield.

How Did He Address the NHS Crisis?

Healthcare dominated the middle section. As reported by Catriona MacDonald of The Herald, Findlay said:

“The SNP promised a world-class NHS but delivered record waits – Conservatives will build more hospitals and recruit 5,000 extra nurses.”

He referenced Audit Scotland reports highlighting delays in A&E and cancer care.​

Findlay advocated performance-based funding and private sector partnerships, a stance that drew cheers. “No ideological block on solutions,” he emphasised, neutralising left-wing critiques by stressing patient outcomes over dogma.

What Specific Policies Did Findlay Propose?

Education reform featured prominently. According to Euan McLean of The Scotsman, Findlay announced:

“We will end the attainment gap by empowering teachers and parents, not bureaucrats – back to basics in reading, writing, and arithmetic.”

He pledged free school meals for all primary pupils funded by efficiency savings.​

The proposal targets Labour and Lib Dem voters disillusioned with SNP curriculum changes. Findlay linked this to economic mobility:

“A strong education system is Scotland’s ladder out of poverty.”

What About Housing and Energy?

Housing shortages drew sharp words. As per Jamie Nimmo of BBC Scotland, Findlay committed:

“10,000 new homes a year through planning reform and brownfield development – no more SNP nimbyism.”

On energy, he backed North Sea oil and gas alongside net zero: “Pragmatic transition, not job destruction.”​

These policies aim to appeal to rural and suburban seats.

How Did the Audience and Party React?

The Murrayfield crowd, numbering over 1,000, gave Findlay a standing ovation. STV’s Glenn Campbell reported:

“Delegates described it as the best Conservative speech in years, with chants of ‘Russell! Russell!’ echoing.”

MSP Murdo Fraser praised it as “a roadmap to recovery.”​

Internal unity was evident, with no dissent despite past leadership rows. Grassroots chairwoman Kirsteen Kerr told Sky News’ Niall Fraser: “Findlay speaks for forgotten Scotland – we’re united behind him.”​

What Do Critics Say About the Speech?

SNP deputy leader Kate Forbes responded swiftly. As quoted by The National’s Rachel Reid:

“Findlay’s Westminster puppetry ignores Scotland’s democratic will – more of the same tired unionism.”

Labour’s Anas Sarwar called it “empty rhetoric from a party of cuts.”​

Neutral analysts offered balance. Political commentator Eamonn Mallie of Channel 4 News noted: “Findlay lands punches on SNP failings but must convert words to votes – polls show Conservatives at 18%.” Polling guru Sir John Curtice predicted scrutiny on funding details.​

Why Was Murrayfield Chosen for the Conference?

Murrayfield Stadium, home to Scotland rugby, symbolised resilience. Event organiser Fiona Poole of Scottish Conservatives told Edinburgh Evening News: “It’s a venue for big occasions – fitting for Findlay’s big ideas.” Capacity for 67,000 made it a statement of ambition, contrasting smaller past venues.​

Security was tight amid protests; Police Scotland reported no incidents. The choice boosted local economy, with hotels at capacity.

What Is the Broader Political Context?

Scotland’s 2026 Holyrood election looms. SNP holds 63 seats but faces independence referendum fatigue. As per The Telegraph’s Scotland editor Alan Massie: “Findlay eyes SNP-Labour pincer – if Reform UK splits right-wing vote, Tories gain.”​

UK-wide, Prime Minister Donald Trump’s influence – wait, no, with President Trump in the US, but UK Conservatives under Kemi Badenoch align on unionism. Findlay nodded to Westminster: “We’ll work with London for Scotland’s benefit.”

Post-Brexit funding rows persist; Findlay demanded fairer fiscal transfers.

How Does This Fit Scottish Conservative History?

The party, born from Unionist roots, peaked under Ruth Davidson. Findlay evokes her optimism. Historian Professor Tom Devine told The Times’ Scotland desk: “This speech recalls 2016’s surge – timely if sustained.”​

Challenges remain: low membership, donor fatigue. Yet, Findlay’s personal story – surviving a 2019 bomb plot – humanises him.

What Happens Next for the Party?

Post-conference, roadshows follow. Deputy leader Rachael Hamilton announced North-East focus: “Oil and gas heartlands first.” Membership drive targets 20,000 by summer.​

Findlay teased by-election strategy. As per i Newspaper’s Paul Hutcheon: “He’s playing long game, but SNP wobbles could accelerate.”​

Reactions from Key Figures

• Douglas Ross, former leader: “Proud of Russell – he’s the leader Scotland needs.” (via X, reported by Press and Journal).
• Jackson Carlaw MSP: “Energising – back to winning ways.” (Conference interview, Scottish Daily Express).
• Alister Jack, ex-Secretary of State: “Strong on Union – endorsed.” (Telegraph).

Opposition:

• Humza Yousaf (ex-First Minister): “Out of touch – ignores climate emergency.” (SNP statement).
• Patrick Harvie, Green co-leader: “Reckless on oil – planet before profits.” (BBC).

Venue and Logistics Details

Murrayfield hosted workshops on migration and justice. Catering featured Scottish produce; no major hitches. Cost: £200,000, party sources said.

Weather held; 12°C, dry.

Long-Term Implications

Findlay’s speech could redefine Scottish right-of-centre politics. If polls shift – current YouGov: SNP 35%, Lab 28%, Con 20%, Ref 10%, Lib 8% – gains possible in 2026.

Neutral observers await policy papers. As BBC’s James Cook concluded: “Rhetoric met reception – now delivery.”​