Work with Westminster over Brexit plans

Sir, - As expected, Scotland’s regional assembly has voted to have another independence referendum.

As I understand things, this vote result is not compulsory, but advisory, and Nicola Surgeon has been totally irresponsible in prolonging this line of action.

Her proposed timetable to have this by April 2019 is ridiculous.

Nobody knows whether or not negotiations will be complete at that time, and no opportunity given to see how things will work out.

A responsible first minister would cooperate with Westminster to assist in obtaining the best possible outcome for the negotiations. Time should be given to see how everything works out once implemented. A 10-year plan seems to me to be quite reasonable, and if at the end of that period, things have not worked out, then decide on another course of action.

A referendum result on a matter of such importance should require a two-thirds majority in favour to win such a vote.

The SNP has this requirement in its constitution when voting on internal matters.

Ms Sturgeon is also playing a dangerous game with her own political future. The chances of an independent Scotland joining the EU, or a free-trade area are pretty slim, if hard borders with England are to be avoided.

Picture: Getty. First Minister Nicola Sturgeon after Tuesday’s referendum vote.