HALF of Scottish adults agree devolution has made independence more likely, according to a new poll.
More than one-third expect constitutional change within five to 10 years, while a quarter say it could be complete within decades.
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The findings come from new polling carried out by Panelbase for The Sunday Times.
More than 1000 people were asked about their views on the Scottish Parliament’s impact on politics and society in research commissioned to mark the 20th anniversary of the first Holyrood elections today.
SNP MSP Bruce Crawford said: “In the 20 years since devolution, the Scottish Parliament has made great progress on a number of issues.
“The ability to take positive decisions to improve the lives of people in Scotland, in a Parliament which is accessible and ready to listen, has made our country a better place.
“While we’ve managed to take better decisions in devolved areas, the status quo of the Westminster system has failed Scotland, and led to disastrous consequences like Brexit. Any pretence Scotland will be treated as an equal partner in the UK has long gone.
“It is now clearer than ever why it is time to complete our journey towards independence. At a time when Labour and the Tories are failing to stand up for devolution, Scotland must have the right to make our own decisions.”
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Half of those questioned said devolution has increased the likelihood of Scottish independence and 44% agreed Holyrood has given the public more say in how the country is run. More than 40% said it has also given Scotland a stronger voice in the UK.
And while opinion was split on whether to go it alone – 39% on both sides – a total of 34% of those questioned said they expect this to happen within five to 10 years.
A slightly lower 29% told pollsters they do not expect independence within the next few decades, but 17% said it will happen in 10 or 15 years and 8% said it is likely to happen but will take 20 to 30 years.
A total of 46% of people said the health service has improved thanks to Holyrood, while 23% said it has gotten worse and 32% did not believe it has made much difference.
On education, 34% said devolution has had a positive impact, compared with 30% who said the opposite and 36% who said it had made little difference.
And, on the economy, 35% said shifting power from Westminster has benefited the country’s fortunes, but 23% stated that it has made things worse. Another 42% said it has had minimal impact.
Meanwhile, further Sunday Times polling found just one in seven Scots support the establishment of a new currency in an independent Scotland.
A total of 37% of resp-ondents would rather keep Sterling in a formal currency union with the rest of the UK, compared with just 14% in favour of a new alternative.
Another 8% said an independent Scotland should use the euro.
The findings come after delegates at the recent SNP conference in Edinburgh voted in favour of setting up a Scottish currency “as soon as practicable” after a Yes vote.
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