Most hated things of life in Scotland? Weather and Nationalists

SCOTS have voted the SNP and the independence movement as their second most hated thing about living north of the Border.

The Nationalists and the threat of separation were beaten only by the weather in what people detest most about living in Scotland, according to a survey by YouGov.

A total of 14 per cent of the 999 adults questioned voted the SNP as the worst thing about life in Scotland.

Ironically, however, Westminster rule, the English and the Conservative party came third on the list, with 10 per cent.

Other gripes included economic problems, bigotry, substance abuse and the dreaded midges.

The survey also asked what the best thing about living in Scotland is.

The findings showed that Scots love two things about the country far more than any other: the countryside’s natural beauty and Scottish people and their attitudes.

A total of 41 per cent of votes chose Scotland’s countryside, scenery and wildlife,

‘People very much at ease with themselves’

and how easily accessible they are, while 37 per cent of Scots said their fellow countrymen and society in general are the best things about the country.

According to YouGov researchers, people often mentioned people’s friendliness and warmth, as well as the national sense of humour.

The top spot for most hated thing about living in Scotland went to the weather.

This bothered women most, with 44 per cent putting it as their most hated thing, whereas only 35 per cent of men chose it.

Survey creator Matthew Smith said: ‘The fact that the issue of Scottish independence – from both sides of the argument – featured so highly on Scots’ list of the worst things about living in Scotland shows just how heavily the issue weighs on a significant minority of Scottish society.’

He added: ‘And with many Scots saying that Scottish people themselves are the best thing about living in Scotland, it is clear that the people of Scotland are very much at ease with themselves.’