POLL ANALYSIS SHOWS SNP INCREASING SEATS AND MAJORITY OVER LABOUR

POLL ANALYSIS SHOWS SNP INCREASING SEATS AND MAJORITY OVER LABOUR

ALL TO PLAY FOR IN WESTMINSTER ELECTIONS

An analysis of the latest Mori poll on Scottish Parliament voting
intentions - which extrapolates the regional vote on the basis of the
swings achieved in the constituency vote - would result in the SNP
increasing its seats in the Scottish Parliament and its majority over
Labour.

The poll results would see the SNP win 55 seats in Holyrood compared
to 47 now whilst Labour would lose 7 seats and fall to 39 seats. This
would increase the SNP's majority over Labour from 1 seat to 16.

SNP Business Convener Bruce Crawford today welcomed the findings,
saying it showed the underlying strength of the SNP vote as we
approached a Westminster election - where the SNP is neck and neck
with Labour in the Mori poll at 34% for Labour to 32% for the SNP.

Commenting Mr Crawford said:

"With Westminster election speculation growing this is a breakthrough
poll for the SNP. Not only is it far and away our strongest ever
position as we approach a UK General Election - neck and neck with
Labour - but it shows us increasing our support in the Scottish
Parliament.

"Voters are showing their confidence in the SNP Government and
responding accordingly.

"We have not only increased support from 2007 but are recording poll
ratings for Westminster which exceed our best ever performance for
that Parliament's elections. Conversely Labour is recording ratings
below their post-war election performances.

"This poll and its analysis shows that there is all to play for in
this election.

"The election in Scotland is a two-horse race between the SNP and
Labour. The SNP putting forward a positive agenda for Scotland and
delivering in government, or Labour politicians with their constant
carping negativity, phoney arguments and failure in office.

"With these record pre-election poll ratings the SNP can take its
message to the people that we will be the local and national champions
who can win for Scotland and not the tired old typical London
politicians from Labour."