Tom Peterkin

Tom Peterkin stands as one of Scotland’s most respected political journalists, with a career spanning over two decades marked by incisive analysis of constitutional debates, devolution, and the independence movement. His work at The Press and Journal and The Scotsman has cemented his reputation as a trusted voice in UK political journalism.

Career Trajectory: From Early Reporting to Political Editorship

Peterkin’s career began in the early 2000s, covering local governance for regional Scottish outlets. His sharp focus on policy nuances quickly led him to national platforms. By 2010, he joined The Scotsman as a senior political correspondent, where he dissected SNP’s rise to power and the lead-up to the 2014 independence referendum. In 2021, he transitioned to The Press and Journal as Political Editor, broadening his coverage to include Northern Scotland’s unique political landscape.

Key Articles and Impact

• When and how will Nicola Sturgeon tackle Indy Ref 2? (Press and Journal, 2019): This analysis piece scrutinized the SNP’s post-2014 strategy, questioning the feasibility of a second referendum. Peterkin interviewed grassroots activists, MPs, and constitutional experts to map the party’s internal debates. The article became a reference point for later coverage of Sturgeon’s resignation in 2023.

Peterkin’s 2019 article dissected the SNP’s balancing act between maintaining public support for independence and navigating Westminster’s resistance. By highlighting divergent views within the party—from gradualists pushing for EU alignment to hardliners demanding immediate action—he foreshadowed the factionalism that later emerged. His use of leaked party memos and polling data provided a granular view of the challenges facing Sturgeon’s leadership.

• Political divide deepens as SNP outlines independence strategy (The Scotsman, 2021): This investigative report revealed leaked documents detailing the SNP’s roadmap for a post-Brexit independence campaign. Peterkin’s sourcing from unnamed cabinet members sparked debates about transparency in Scottish politics.

The 2021 scoop underscored Peterkin’s ability to navigate sensitive political networks. By contextualizing the leaks within broader tensions between Holyrood and Westminster, he illustrated how Brexit reanimated constitutional debates. The article’s impact was evident in subsequent parliamentary inquiries into government transparency.