ON a day of high drama and historic events, one undeniable fact emerged from the rubble of Britain’s relationship with Europe: the United Kingdom is over, fractured beyond repair by a power struggle between two factions of the same privileged elite.

It now falls on Scotland to negotiate a dignified withdrawal from the UK so that we can forge the renewed and reinvigorated relationship with Europe which the EU referendum result demonstrated is the will of the majority of those who live here.

To that end, yesterday First Minister Nicola Sturgeon delivered a tour de force of political theatre when she announced that plans are already in play to bring about a second referendum on Scottish independence. But, although it falls to the First Minister and her party to skilfully manipulate the mechanics of the state to deliver us to that aim, they will achieve success only if the drive for independence is coming not just from the SNP but from the country at large.

It is debatable if the decision to leave Europe – catastrophic and wrong-headed as it is – would by itself have caused the country to rise up and demand independence.

But when combined with what was to all intents and purposes an extreme right-wing coup to establish permanent Conservative/Ukip governments, it’s almost impossible to interpret Scotland’s vote as anything other than a demand for autonomy from Westminster.

The SNP now have a responsibility to remain level-headed and responsible while retaining focus on the ultimate prize.

The path to indyref2 may not be an easy one. There is no indication of how a new Prime Minister might react to that demand. But we are confident that the oft-repeated Sturgeon mantra that no politician has the right to stand against public demand will in the end carry the day.

But it is not just the SNP who shoulder a great responsibility ... everyone who was part of the Yes movement in 2014 must be aware that their future actions could significantly affect the outcome of the next referendum.

If the SNP must strengthen those parts of the independence arguments which were least convincing, the wider movement must build bridges with those who voted No in 2014.

There is no room for residual resentments and festering sores. It hardly needs saying that independence will not become a reality unless some of those who voted No change their minds and their votes. Behaviour, particularly on social media, should reflect that reality. We know from bitter experience that critics are looking for the slightest opportunity to pounce.

Let’s deny them that chance.

The second independence referendum will not – need not – come tomorrow, but come it will.

The answers to questions over issues such as currency and the problems within the oil industry are arguably more difficult now than they were in 2014 but answers will be found and articulated.

Project Fear will be pressed into action yet again but this time we will be wise enough to know a lie at the third time of telling.

In truth Scotland this week said yes to many questions.

We said yes to the positive case for immigration. We said yes to looking outward and to forging relationships and partnerships with our neighbours and allies.

We said yes to standing alongside those in need against the cruelty of austerity rather than blaming them for the problems which are ravaging their lives.

Now we want to be asked another, familiar question: “Should Scotland be an independent country?”

It is just a short step to saying Yes to that too. We believe passionately and confidently, that this time that’s exactly the answer Scotland will give.