Clash over an indy ref

SNP may mount fresh bid

The prospect of a second independence referendum has sparked a war of words between the area’s MSPs.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced that another independence vote could take place in Scotland due to the UK’s deadlock on Brexit.

The SNP leader wants ‘clarity on Brexit’ first, but is expected to push for Scotland going it alone just four years after the country voted no.

Her party produced a growth commission report which focuses on developing Scotland’s economy – but is also being seen as the blueprint for independence.

Labour MSP James Kelly said the area does not want or need another referendum, and claims that people are growing tired of Ms Sturgeon arguing for separation.

He said: “Aside from a few hard-line nationalists, I’ve not heard from a single person in Rutherglen or Cambuslang who thinks that a second independence referendum is a priority for Scotland.

“After a decade in government, with an NHS system in crisis and schools deprived of essential resources, it beggars belief that the First Minister is pushing the day job aside to once again divide the country.

“People are starting to see through Nicola Sturgeon for someone who puts flags first and thinks about running the country second. She shirks responsibility for the health service and what is happening in our schools.

“At a time of real uncertainty, the last thing Rutherglen and Cambuslang needs is another referendum.”

Adam Tomkins, Conservative list MSP, added: “The SNP have been in office for 11 years. Our devolved parliament is one of the most powerful in the world - with more powers still to come.

“But still the outcomes in Scotland’s education system and health service are failing pupils and patients, and our economy is growing more slowly than the rest of the UK.

“The SNP should be using the powers they already have, rather than launch yet another campaign for independence.

“Scotland said no in 2014, and we meant it.”

However, Rutherglen SNP MSP Clare Haughey argued that the focus is on the dangers of Brexit and the strength of Scotland’s economy.

She said: “The report sets out a realistic ambition for Scotland to drive inclusive, sustainable growth, emulating other small advanced economies which are much more successful than the broken economic model of the UK.

“There can be no doubt that the single biggest threat to our economy and prosperity is Brexit. By contrast, this is about growing the economy.

“Scotland is a wealthy nation with huge resources – but other nations of similar size do better with fewer resources.

“We look forward to debating the recommendations in the report, both within the SNP and with business, trade unions and communities across Scotland. I hope this report will raise the content and quality of debate about independence.

“However, the Growth Commission Report, in itself, is not about the timing of a referendum on independence. As the First Minister has already said, that will be determined when the terms of Brexit are clearer.”

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Scotland said no in 2014 and we meant it