SNP moves closer to demanding 2nd Scottish independence referendum

The 2014 referendum on independence in Scotland was supposed to be a once-in-a-generation one, but the Scottish National Party – which lost the referendum – is inching towards demanding another referendum after the 2016 elections in Scotland.

The 2014 referendum on independence in Scotland was supposed to be a once-in-a-generation one, but the Scottish National Party – which lost the referendum – is inching towards demanding another referendum after the 2016 elections in Scotland.

SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon has revealed in an interview that a list of ‘triggers’ for a second referendum will be set out in the party’s manifesto for the elections, which means the second referendum may be possibility during the next term of Scottish parliament until 2021.

Strugeon told the Sunday Herald: “Our manifesto will set out what we think around the circumstances in which, and the possible timescales in which, a second referendum might be appropriate”.

She added: “It will then be down to people to accept whether they vote for that manifesto. People, as they vote in the election next year, will know what our position is and what our view is on the circumstances in which a second referendum might be appropriate.”

It will be up to London to accept the demand for another referendum or not. Surgeon’s interview to the Scotland-based publication drew criticism from leaders opposed to independence.

Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson added: “Most people in Scotland want to put last year's referendum behind them and get on with life. Despite her own promises, it is now clear that Nicola Sturgeon wants to take Scotland back to a neverendum. The SNP has shown yet again that it will always put its obsession with separation first.”

Labour MP Ian Murray said: “We were told the referendum was a once in a generation opportunity, but now Nicola Sturgeon appears to be going back on her word and is following her members rather than doing what is in the best interests of the country. The SNP want the election to be about past arguments because they can't defend their record in government.”