EU softens stance, claims Russell

Scotland’s Constitutional Relations Secretary Mike Russell has suggested European scepticism about Scottish independence has “gone away”.

Mr Russell said he detected “stronger sympathy” for the cause among EU nations as the former president of the European Council warned a no-deal Brexit could lead to the break-up of the UK.

Herman Van Rompuy told The Observer newspaper that leaving the EU without a deal posed an “existential threat” to the UK, with consequences for Scotland.

UK ministers have published a series of technical notices advising businesses and the public on how to prepare for a no-deal scenario, although they have stressed that coming to a deal with European negotiators remains their top priority.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has previously said she will provide an update on plans for a second independence referendum in autumn, and has said leaving the UK without an agreement would be an “unmitigated disaster”.

Appearing at an Edinburgh Festival fringe event, Mr Russell suggested EU leaders’ stance on an independent Scotland has softened.

Scotland’s membership status within the bloc was a key area of debate during the 2014 referendum.

Mr Russell said: “I do think that if this process is undertaken constitutionally and correctly then it will be accepted by all member states.”