66pc reject a second poll

TWO-THIRDS of Scots are opposed to another independence referendum before the UK formally leaves the EU.

A poll published yesterday found 66 per cent want negotiations on leaving the EU to conclude before there is any further vote.

The findings come days after Alex Salmond said he expects another referendum in around two years, before Brexit negotiations are concluded.

The Panelbase poll of 1,024 Scots revealed only 33 per cent of respondents believe there should be another independence referendum in the next two to three years.

Some 21 per cent support another referendum, but only ‘when the UK has finished Brexit negotiations’, while 46 per cent said there should not be a referendum in the next few years.

It also found 48 per cent support independence, while 52 per cent are opposed.

Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson said: ‘Two years on from the referendum, support for a second referendum is nosediving. The message to Nicola Sturgeon could not be clearer: Scotland doesn’t want to go back to the divisions of the past.’

SNP business convener Derek Mackay said: ‘The SNP Government will continue to explore all options to protect Scotland’s relationship with the EU – and that must include the option of another independence referendum, if it becomes clear that this is the best option to do that.’