Stephen Flynn, the SNP’s Westminster leader and MP for Aberdeen South, insists his constituents will understand his plan to travel over 3,000 miles to the United States for Scotland’s World Cup matches this summer.
Flynn doubles down on attending games featuring Steve Clarke’s national team, despite missing key sessions in the House of Commons, including Prime Minister’s Questions. Politicians lack formal annual leave and typically schedule breaks during Parliament’s 142 recess days.
Scotland’s World Cup Fixtures
The national team faces Haiti on June 14, Morocco five days later, and Brazil on June 24. Matches occur in Boston and Miami while both Holyrood and Westminster remain in session.
Political Backlash and Boycott Calls
Flynn faces criticism for prioritizing the tournament. Scottish Conservatives MSP Liam Kerr questions the ambitious politician’s focus, stating: “Stephen Flynn’s constituents will be asking serious questions about his priorities when he’s jetting across the Atlantic, rather than representing them in parliament.”
Kerr adds that while fans celebrate qualification, many in Aberdeen struggle with SNP government taxes, preventing such trips. He notes Flynn’s past Trump criticisms might prompt boycott demands from him if Scotland had not qualified.
Earlier, former SNP MP Hannah Kennedy-Bardell urged a boycott over President Donald Trump’s threats to acquire Greenland, calling for “radical action.” Flynn rejected this, saying he does not believe “that is a route we want to go down.” He may also moderate online Trump critiques to secure US entry.
Flynn’s Fan Enthusiasm
A dedicated Tartan Army member, Flynn updated his social media bio to “GOING TO THE WORLD CUP” after Scotland’s qualification on November 18 via a 4-2 victory over Denmark, sparked by Scott McTominay’s stunning opener. In June 2024, he shared a pre-match pint with First Minister John Swinney in Munich before Scotland’s Euros clash with Germany; Culture Secretary Angus Robertson attended in traditional attire.
Flynn defends the trip as a rare event, telling reporters: “Like many families across Scotland I’m looking forward to cheering on our national team. I know the fans will be wishing them all the best and looking forward to the Bank Holiday celebrations announced by the SNP government. I’m sure my constituents will be understanding of the rarity of the occasion and will be hoping that I come home having witnessed Scotland make history on the world stage.”
Flynn eyes a Holyrood shift, contesting Aberdeen South and North Kincardine in upcoming Scottish Parliament elections. Even a May victory and Westminster exit would mean missing duties for the games.
The Scottish Government has petitioned the King for a special bank holiday on June 15 to mark the team’s participation.
