Steven Bonnar

Just days after being elected as the SNP MP for Coatbridge, Chryston & Bellshill, Steven Bonnar hit the headlines after crossing his fingers during his swearing in. He won the seat from Labour’s Hugh Gaffney, taking the seat back for his party on a 7.6 per cent swing. Bonnar was charged in connection to a street disturbance after a video emerged of the North Lanarkshire MP bitterly arguing with a neighbour over a Celtic flag hung up in his window. A public prosecutor in Scotland is now reviewing the case. Bonnar says the issue which most inspires his political career is the “right to self-determination and full independence” of Scotland. He has also said that “moving away from the archaic structures and pageantry” of parliament would be an important step toward reform. Describing himself as a “New Age” politician, he is more ‘inspired by Scotland and Scotland’s people” than any specific politicians and heroes’ from its past.

Hot Seat

A favourite pub or local sports team?

In my constituency you must go and watch the mighty Albion play in the SPFL for some banter and a good pie and bovril.

Which historical figures, political or otherwise, do you take inspiration from?

Wallace, Bruce, Salmond, Collins, Pearse, Connolly.

Which foreign affairs issues are of most importance to you?

A compassionate and peacekeeping foreign policy.