SNP’S new drive for independence is no closer to becoming a reality

THE First Minister is trying to keep everyone happy on the big question mark hanging over Scotland’s future but might, instead, end up frustrating all quarters.

Ms Sturgeon has found herself in a tricky position when it comes to independence. Her preferred strategy depends on Boris Johnson giving her plans for a repeat of the 2014 referendum the thumbs-up – an unlikely prospect.

The PM might also be keen to call an early General Election at Westminster in 2023, setting up a potential clash with the SNP’S timetable.

Signalling a vote to take place while Covid is still very much a priority will not play well with voters. Move too slow and some within her party will demand more urgency.

Opponents have jumped on the First Minister’s declaration that, “Covid permitting”, the campaign for independence will restart in spring – with Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross calling it “a disgrace” that the move was announced as the pandemic potentially turned another worrying corner.

In truth, the First Minister’s conference speech did not signal a change of tack or date in bringing forward plans for an independence vote. We can only assume that to “initiate the process necessary”to start the process for another poll will be a Holyrood bill that we have known is in the pipeline.

No-one is denying the case for Scottish independence needs redrawing – not least following Brexit and the financial case in desperate need of a re-think in light of the climate crisis.

But whether that case will ever make it to the voters remains to be seen.