Corbyn plots SNP referendum deal

JEREMY Corbyn has pledged to start talks with the SNP about independence within days of his party winning the election.

Asked about a second referendum in an interview yesterday, the Labour leader said: ‘I’ll obviously open discussions with the Government in Scotland.’

Mr Corbyn would not rule out agreeing to the SNP’s timetable for a referendum, which could see a second vote held before Brexit has concluded.

He spoke as SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon said her party was willing to enter a coali- tion in its bid for power. She added: ‘If there is any chance of a progressive alliance that locks the Tories out I would want to get as much of the SNP manifesto implemented as possible.’

The comments provoked a furious response from Conservatives who accused Labour of planning a sweetheart deal with the SNP.

Scottish Tory leader Ruth Davidson said the SNP ‘is desperate for a second referendum and will do anything to get it, even putting Jeremy Corbyn in No 10’.