Divisions see fall in support for split from UK

Support for Scottish independence has dipped, according to a new poll published amid internal division in the SNP.

The Savanta Comres poll put support for independence at 47%, compared with 42% for staying in the UK and 10% undecided.

It’s the first time support for separation has dropped below 50% since December.

When people who haven’t made up their minds are stripped out, the poll is 53-47 for leaving the UK, a fall of four points for independence and a rise of four points for the union compared with the last poll by the firm.

The SNP has been rocked by divisions in recent weeks with a difficult public row between the leadership under Nicola Sturgeon and outspoken critics including MPS Joanna Cherry and Kenny Macaskill.

The first minister is also in a bitter public battle with former leader Alex Salmond over the botched investigation into allegations of misconduct against him.

The Scotsman poll shows 45% of people think the SNP is divided but it’s made little impact on the likely result of an election in less than three months.

Around 54% of Scots say they will back the SNP at the election, with 43% supporting them on the regional list.

If reflected nationally, that would see Ms Sturgeon back in charge of the government with a majority.

The fight for second place appears to have the Conservatives in a stronger position than in some previous polls with 23% support in constituencies and 21% in regions.

Labour, currently without a leader, are on 16% in constituencies and 18% in regions.