A prediction that indyref2 will be called this year has come from an unexpected source in the build-up to this spring's Tory party conference.
David Mundell has written in the handbook which accompanies the Scottish Conservative gathering that he reckons Nicola Sturgeon is gearing up to call for a second vote.
It was reported in The Herald today that the Scotish Secretary has claimed the First Minister is "up to her old tricks", and said the Tories would fight against any plan to call indyref2.
Mundell wrote: “Those victories in June stopped Nicola Sturgeon’s dash for a second referendum in its tracks. It was the prize that many of those who voted for us wanted most.
“But I have been dismayed – though not surprised – that she is already back to her old tricks.
“I fear we will face a fresh call for a vote on leaving the UK in the months ahead but I remain as determined as ever to fight back and stand up for the majority of Scots who dread another, damaging bout of constitutional skirmishing.
“Now is the time to pull together, to focus on the most important facing the UK: securing the best possible deal as we leave the EU.
“Not forcing another unwanted independence referendum on the people of Scotland.”
Of course, Mundell also said that the Brexit impact analysis, which showed the devastating effect on Scotland of leaving the EU, didn't exist. It did.
Perhaps his proclamations should be taken with a pinch of salt!
Why are you making commenting on The National only available to subscribers?
We know there are thousands of National readers who want to debate, argue and go back and forth in the comments section of our stories. We’ve got the most informed readers in Scotland, asking each other the big questions about the future of our country.
Unfortunately, though, these important debates are being spoiled by a vocal minority of trolls who aren’t really interested in the issues, try to derail the conversations, register under fake names, and post vile abuse.
So that’s why we’ve decided to make the ability to comment only available to our paying subscribers. That way, all the trolls who post abuse on our website will have to pay if they want to join the debate – and risk a permanent ban from the account that they subscribe with.
The conversation will go back to what it should be about – people who care passionately about the issues, but disagree constructively on what we should do about them. Let’s get that debate started!
Callum Baird, Editor of The National
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel