Scottish Independence: A New Referendum on the Horizon?

John Swinney, Scotland’s first minister, plans to call another independence referendum if the SNP wins a majority in May's elections. He argues the Brexit vote changed the prior union stance of Scots and questions if Keir Starmer will remain UK prime minister should this occur.

Scotland's First Minister John Swinney announced his intention to pursue another independence referendum if his party, the SNP, secures a majority in the upcoming Scottish parliament elections in May. This move could potentially overturn Keir Starmer's leadership.

Swinney emphasized that a strong showing for the SNP is crucial, especially after the 2014 referendum where Scots voted to remain part of the UK by 55% to 45%. The subsequent Brexit vote, opposed by most Scottish voters, reignited the independence debate.

Despite a legal ruling against holding a second referendum without the British parliament's approval, Swinney is confident that should the SNP win a majority, the political landscape could change, impacting Starmer's position as UK prime minister.

(With inputs from agencies.)