Mhairi Black Exits SNP Amid Disagreements on Trans Rights and Palestine Stance

Former SNP MP Mhairi Black has departed the party, citing disagreements over its positions on trans rights and the Israel-Palestine conflict, according to BBC sources.

By Lubowa Babu Hussein

July 25, 2025 at 1:01 PM

3,540 views

Key Takeaways

Former SNP MP Mhairi Black is leaving the party due to disagreements over its approach to trans rights and stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Black criticized the SNP for 'capitulating' on key issues like LGBTQ+ rights and Palestine, expressing frustration with the party's strategies.
Despite her departure, Black remains committed to Scottish independence and has become more left-leaning, advocating for further party evolution.
Black's political career included being the youngest MP since 1832 and facing challenges such as burnout, which she links to a recent ADHD diagnosis.
The SNP spokesperson emphasized party unity and aims to build a 'better, fairer Scotland,' while Black's exit fuels debates on the party's direction.

Former SNP MP Mhairi Black Leaves Party Over Key Policy Disputes

Former Scottish National Party (SNP) Member of Parliament Mhairi Black has confirmed her departure from the party, with internal sources indicating her decision stems primarily from conflicts over the SNP’s approach to trans rights and its stance on the Israel-Palestine issue. Black, who previously served as the SNP’s deputy leader in Westminster, expressed frustration with the party’s recent decisions during an interview with The Herald, stating she had "too many times" disagreed with its strategies and priorities.

In the interview, Black criticized the SNP for "capitulating" on matters central to her values, including LGBTQ+ rights and the Palestinian cause. "I thought the party could be doing better about Palestine as well," she remarked, adding that her commitment to Scottish independence remains unchanged. However, she noted she has grown more left-leaning over time, emphasizing the need for the party to evolve further.

Black rose to prominence in 2015 when she became the youngest MP in the UK since 1832 at age 20, defeating former Labour cabinet secretary Douglas Alexander in the Paisley and Renfrewshire South constituency. Her tenure was marked by challenges, including safety concerns, online harassment, and the demands of parliamentary life, which led her to step down ahead of the 2023 general election.

Her exit announcement coincided with her upcoming appearance at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, where she will promote her show Work in Progress. Black also revealed she was diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) during her time in Parliament, a condition she linked to experiencing burnout amid the pressures of her role.

An SNP spokesperson responded to her departure by highlighting the party’s unity under the leadership of John Swinney, who aims to build a "better, fairer Scotland." Black’s resignation adds to ongoing debates within Scottish politics about the party’s direction on social and international issues.

Mhairi Black at Edinburgh Fringe