article_snippet: Alex Salmond has boasted that the SNP will hold the balance of power in the Commons after the next election .
article_snippet: Former First Minister Alex Salmond, meanwhile, has boasted that the SNP will hold the balance of power in the Commons after the next election and will be able to force Labour to increase spending, borrowing and debt.
article_snippet: On Sunday, Miss Sturgeon said the SNP could be in a 'very powerful position' at Westminster after the election.
highlights_snippet: Alex Salmond has boasted that the SNP will hold the balance of power .