Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar’s abrupt decision to resign from his post to accept a peerage and ministerial role in the UK government has drawn sharp criticism from political rivals in Scotland. The move was confirmed as Prime Minister Andy Burnham prepares to appoint Sarwar as a life peer and assign him a ministerial position at the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade.
Sarwar, who had been a vocal critic of the House of Lords and pledged to abolish the institution, now faces accusations of hypocrisy from opposition figures. Scottish Greens co-leader Gillian Mackay condemned the decision, calling Sarwar a “chancer” for reversing his long-held stance and accepting a seat in the Lords. Similarly, the Scottish National Party (SNP) labeled the move “unacceptable,” demanding Sarwar donate his new salary to charity and accusing him of misleading voters about his intentions. SNP MSP George Adam asserted that Sarwar and Labour had repeatedly denied any plans to join the Lords, characterizing the acceptance of the peerage as a betrayal.
Despite the backlash, insiders within Scottish Labour indicated that the decision was unexpected and not part of a premeditated plan. Several party officials expressed surprise, describing the resignation as disruptive, especially following the recent Holyrood elections where Scottish Labour recorded its worst performance to date. One party staffer suggested that a clearer announcement of Sarwar’s intentions earlier in the year would have allowed for a smoother leadership transition.
Under normal procedures, Sarwar’s Scottish Parliament seat will be handed over to Monica Lennon, the next candidate on Labour’s regional list. Lennon, who has previously been viewed as a strong leadership contender, is joined by MSP Michael Marra as potential successors. Given that Scottish Labour has only 17 MSPs, the leadership contest is expected to be limited. While it remains possible for a UK MP or a member of the House of Lords to lead Scottish Labour, the role has traditionally been held by an MSP due to parliamentary responsibilities.
Sources close to Sarwar highlighted the balancing act required for the next Scottish Labour leader—to present a distinctly Scottish platform while aligning with the UK-wide party. One insider noted the need for the new leader to educate Burnham, who as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, is perceived by some as lacking understanding of the devolved nations’ specific challenges. Sarwar’s involvement in Burnham’s government may help address that disconnect.
Observers noted that Sarwar’s ambition and desire to influence change likely factored into his decision. Remaining in opposition at Holyrood could have meant waiting several years for another electoral opportunity, a prospect seen as unappealing for Sarwar. A source close to him remarked that given the choice between power in Westminster and opposition in Scotland, it was understandable for Sarwar to prioritize the former.
The leadership vacancy comes amid ongoing challenges for Scottish Labour as it seeks to rebuild following its electoral decline. The party now faces a critical period to select a leader capable of uniting its members and mounting an effective challenge in Holyrood.