Connery turns on the cash

SIR Sean Connery has resumed his donations to the Scottish National party after a four-year gap.
The actor has donated a “four-figure sum” to help to bankroll the party’s by- election campaigns in Glasgow Cathcart and Livingston.

Connery suspended his donations to the party after Alex Salmond, a close friend, stepped down as party leader in 2000.

Connery was widely believed to have a poor opinion of John Swinney, Salmond’s successor, whose leadership style was often criticised for being lacklustre. Now, following Salmond’s return earlier this year, the party’s best-known donor has decided to reopen his wallet.

“We are very pleased that Sean has responded to the general financial appeal we issued to members for the by-elections. He’s always there when the party calls, putting his shoulder to the wheel,” said a senior SNP source.

The improved relationship between the SNP and its most famous backer could make a substantial difference to the party’s finances and electoral prospects. Party sources are optimistic that they will meet their £25,000 campaign target for the by-elections caused by the death of Robin Cook and Lord Watson’s conviction for fire-raising.

TIMESonLINE