‘No right’ to block Scots’ poll

NICOLA Sturgeon yesterday fired a warning shot that “democracy must and will prevail” as she launched her latest attempt for a new Scottish independence referendum.

The SNP leader said Boris Johnson had no right to block a request adding that a “flat no” would only boost her campaign.

Speaking in Edinburgh, Ms Sturgeon said Scotland could be a “better country” at the “heart of Europe” if it breaks away as the SNP now boasts 47 MPs.

She added: “There is a clear mandate for this nation to have the power to decide its own future. I will consider all reasonable options to secure Scotland’s right to selfdetermination.”

Nicola Sturgeon yesterday

of health system think tank The King’s Fund, added: “The additional £1billion a year to give a short-term boost to social care services for both adults and children is not enough to meet rising demand for care while maintaining quality and accessibility of services.”

Jeremy Hughes, of the Alzheimer’s Society, said: “The state of dementia care is in crisis.

“Where’s the action? We need immediate investment now and a clear timeline for Government plans to overhaul social care funding or these statements are meaningless.”

Dr Jennifer Dixon, chief executive of the Health Foundation, said: “With growing numbers of people unable to access the care they need, there is no time to waste.

“Fundamental reform of social care should be the immediate priority – the Government must now grasp the nettle.”