Catalonian query

As the unconstitutional or “advisory” referendum on Catalonian independence looms in the autumn, how are Nicola Sturgeon and the SNP establishment to react?

Will Ms Sturgeon adhere to the long-held SNP position and unequivocally support Catalonian separatism? Already SNP MSP Gordon Macdonald has submitted a Holyrood motion, supported by 16 fellow SNP MSPS, to welcome the referendum, despite it being held against the Madrid government’s wishes.

Or will Ms Sturgeon attempt pragmatism? She mustn’t provoke the Spanish government. If Scotland were ever to become an independent country, attempt to join the EU and overcome the legion of hurdles necessary to be considered a suitable candidate by Brussels, Ms Sturgeon would require the support of every EU country.

Spain, while willing to accept a legitimately independent Scotland, is suspicious of Scottish separatism.

Presumably Ms Sturgeon will once more try to balance the demands of her dyed-inthe-wool supporters while not further alienating the majority of Scots, increasingly dismissive of her indyref2 obsession.

With SNP vote share falling at every election and even Ms Sturgeon acknowledging her independence dream is the reason, we must surely expect duplicity and doublespeak from the SNP leader on this issue.

Whatmatterstoheraboveall else right now is rebuilding her indyref2 case – and criticism from Madrid would be damaging. The SNP’S long-standing allies in the Catalonian separatist movement should prepare themselves – publicly at least – to be dumped.

MARTIN REDFERN Merchiston Gardens, Edinburgh