Covid, not Brexit or independence, is the priority – Scotsman comment

New polls shows 63 per cent of people in Scotland do not regard a second independence referendum as a priority.

The coronavirus pandemic rather than constitutional issues should be uppermost in politicians' minds (Picture: Neil Hanna)

Polls showing support for independence has risen above 50 per cent over the last few weeks have boosted the hopes of nationalists that their day is coming and concern among unionists in equal measure. It is one reason why Nicola Sturgeon has been coming under pressure to do more to further her cause from those who think she is too cautious over questions like Boris Johnson’s refusal to allow a second referendum.

However, a new poll by Survation suggests that trying to push too hard for their main goal could backfire on the SNP.

It surveyed just over 1,000 people and found that 63 per cent did not think a new vote on independence should be a priority. Taking these polls together, this means there is a group of voters who support independence but do not think that the time is right.

The reasons are good ones and blindingly obvious. The Covid outbreak, the NHS, social care and the economy were people’s main priorities, according to Survation, demonstrating the good sense of the Scottish public. If the Scottish Government takes its eye off the coronavirus ball or even if it appears to do so, voters may punish them at next year’s Holyrood election. Even if they receive the most seats, the key question is whether there is a pro-independence or a pro-Union majority in the next parliament. If it is the latter, then there will be no second referendum.

So, for the SNP to succeed in its ambitions, it needs to nurture the newly arrived supporters of independence by making sure it clamps down quickly on any coronavirus outbreaks and continues to work with businesses to help them through this crisis. Nothing is more important. For unionists, they need to keep up the pressure on the Scottish Government to make sure they stick to this task and that voters are well aware of any failings. This could be the best short-term way to save the Union while work continues on winning over the hearts and minds to the benefits of the UK.

The UK Government should also pay attention because Covid and fixing the associated economic crisis – not Brexit – has to be its main priority. Again, if it fails to realise this and inflicts a no-deal Brexit on the country, the judgement of the Scottish people next May is likely to be severe. Simply put, the clear message to all our politicians is: keep usual politics to one side and fix this crisis.

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