Scottish independence: SNP 'remain committed' to independence referendum in October 2023 despite 'instability' in Westminster

Scotland’s constitution secretary has reaffirmed the SNP/Green Government’s commitment to holding an independence referendum next year despite “instability” at Westminster.

Angus Robertson told MSPs during portfolio questions at the Scottish Parliament on Wednesday that despite the “major economic challenges” being worsened by the UK Government, the plan was still to hold a referendum next year. Critics called on the SNP to focus on the cost-of-living crisis and reducing uncertainty in Scotland by shelving the plans.

Mr Robertson said: “UK Government policies are making major economic challenges such as inflation, inequality and the cost-of-living worse. Instability and uncertainty are increasing as financial markets express a lack of confidence in the UK Government’s economic management and competence. We’re fully committed to holding an independence referendum in October next year, pending the decision of the Supreme Court.

He added: "There was a Scottish Parliament election last year. A record number of members of this chamber were elected on a manifesto commitment that the people should be able to take their view on Scotland’s constitutional future as an independent country. We still live in a democratic state, the people have had their say. The people’s decision should be respected and they should have a vote next autumn on Scotland’s independent future. I would advise those parties that are pursuing this argument of democracy denial is they really, really should give up on it."

Donald Cameron, the constitution spokesperson for the Scottish Conservatives, blamed the SNP for the lack of certainty in Scotland. He said: “Isn’t the truth that the only truth to the political stability of the United Kingdom is the Scottish Government’s blinkered commitment to a divisive, polarising referendum, which is creating uncertainty for people and businesses across Scotland.”

Sarah Boyack, Scottish Labour’s constitution spokesperson, called on the SNP to focus on the cost-of-living crisis rather than moving towards an independence referendum in October next year. She said: “The Tories have created massive inequalities and divisions, but won’t he accept that our focus in Scotland now should be tackling the cost-of-living crisis, not replicating that division and wasting £20 million on a referendum that people simply don’t want.”

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