Brexit will mean Scottish independence vote, say SNP MPs

Brexit will lead to another vote on Scottish independence, SNP MPs have told the Commons.

Brexit Secretary Dominic Raab sought to reassure MPs that relations with Brussels were positive during a debate on Brexit negotiations and no-deal contingency planning.

SNP veteran Angus MacNeil told Mr Raab he was pursuing a “scorched earth” policy that would lead to a second independence referendum in the next 12 months.

“It’s one of the reasons Scotland will decide on its independence within the next year,” the Western Isles MP said.

SNP veteran Angus MacNeil. Picture: PA Wire

Mr Raab dismissed the claim as evidence of the “SNP obsession” with independence.

“I notice the way he always brings any matter relating to Brexit down to the blinkered, narrow political obsession the SNP has with a referendum on independence,” he said.

“I think actually across all parts of the UK they would like to see us striving to get the best deal that works for all corners of the UK.”

SNP home affairs spokeswoman Joanna Cherry said the Prime Minister would lose Scotland if she continued on the current path.

The Edinburgh South West MP said: “An opinion poll conducted by Best for Britain showed a majority of Scots favour independence if the UK leaves the EU as planned.

“Is that a risk the minister is willing to take?”

Mr Raab said the plan was for a “strong deal” with the EU that “works for all quarters of the UK and respects the territorial and economic integrity of the UK”.