Four in 10 Scots less likely to back independence if pound ditched

ALMOST 40 per cent of Scottish voters would be less likely to support independence if the nation appeared on course to adopt the euro after leaving the UK, in line with the requirements of EU membership, a poll found.

A survey of 1,000 Scottish adults found that 39 per cent would be less likely to back the country’s departure from the union if it would then be required to replace the pound.

Nicola Sturgeon, the First Minister, said an independent Scotland would rejoin the EU “relatively quickly”. But EU officials have privately made clear that the country would be required to join the euro. “If you join the club, you have to wear the tie,” said one official. “You cannot wear your own tie.”

The SNP has issued contrary messages over the issue. Overall, the survey for The Sunday Telegraph by Redfield & Wilton Strategies found that 47 per cent of Scots would vote against Scotland becoming an independent country if a referendum were held tomorrow, compared with 44 per cent who would vote yes.

The poll suggests that the UK Government’s handling of Covid-19 vaccines may have boosted the union in Scotland, with 57 per cent agreeing that the early procurement of vaccines demonstrated its benefits. However, 38 per cent of respondents said that Ms Sturgeon and Holyrood deserved most credit for the rollout in Scotland.

Among those who have been watching the Tokyo Olympics, 91 per cent said they were supporting Team GB.