SNP set to table amendment for Indyref2 power

POLITICS: MP insists Scots should be able to ‘determine their own destiny’ post-brexit

The SNP will put forward an amendment asking for the power to hold an independence referendum if the UK leaves the EU, the party’s Westminster spokesman has said.

Ian Blackford MP said that the people of Scotland should be able to “determine their own destiny” after the country voted to remain in the EU in 2016.

Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt on Thursday said that the prime minister would “of course” refuse the Scottish Government permission to hold another independence referendum.

However, Mr Blackford said that the Scottish Parliament has a mandate to hold an independence referendum and said that Theresa May should respect the sovereignty of the Scottish people.

While the Scottish Government could stage another vote on independence, a section 30 order transferring the powers needed to hold such a ballot from Westminster would be needed for it to be legally binding.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has said she would not hold a referendum without Westminster’s permission.

MPS will vote on the prime minister’s EU withdrawal bill tomorrow.

The SNP will table its amendment today, rejecting Mrs May’s Brexit deal and backing the Scottish Parliament’s mandate to hold an independence referendum.

A UK Government spokesman said: “The Scottish Government needs to stop using Brexit as an excuse to pursue their unwanted independence agenda.”