SNP MPs have been accused of attempting to keep up with Tory imperialism after the party laid out its foreign and defence policy proposals. 

Anti-militarism campaigners have blasted the party over plans laid out last week, which would see increased spending on the military north of the border.  

The proposals from MPs Stewart McDonald and Alyn Smith make up the party’s submission to the UK government’s Integrated Review of Foreign and Defence Policy and outline policies which experts say align closely with those of Nato and the EU. 

While calling for the removal of Trident and more devolved input into foreign policy, the party suggests further investment in the defence industry, permanently basing warships in Scottish waters, and using money saved on nuclear weapons to fund more ships and aircraft. 

Campaigners have criticised the proposals, accusing the SNP and Mr McDonald of “trying to top the Tories” on “warfare.”

Scotland Against Militarism co-founder Jay Sutherland said: “What happened to a defence policy that prioritised the welfare of people, not the warfare ideology of the West? We do not need just another army based in Scotland. 

“More widely the anti-war majority of Scotland and especially within the SNP themselves will be against this move. 

“McDonald has also suggested scrapping Trident can allow even more spending on the military when in reality this spending should be going on education, social services and tackling the real security threat of our lifetime: the climate crisis. 

“We have now got to a point where the SNP are trying to match the Tories’ imperialism to seem strong, not only does it signify McDonald’s ongoing shift to the right but a highly damaging strategy for the independence campaign.” 

The SNP have been approached for comment.