Scottish independence: Winning over fifth of voters who are undecided holds the key – Angus Robertson

The Conservatives are hoping that supporters of Scottish independence fall out among themselves, writes Angus Robertson.

Boris Johnson is unwilling to give ground on indyref2 (Picture: Peter Summers/Getty Images)

Supporters of Scottish independence are keen to deliver sovereignty for Scotland as soon as possible. I too want to persuade a decisive majority that being a normal European country will be much better than letting Westminster decide.

In recent months, we have seen a number of polls indicate a narrow majority now backs independence, but a subsequent survey has seen that return to a minority position. Public opinion in Scotland is finely balanced. In recent years, the Tories have decided to brazen out election results in Scotland which have given a mandate for an independence referendum by saying ‘now is not the time’. Everyone knows this is not sustainable.

Tories are also hoping that supporters of Scottish independence fall out about the next steps. By testing our patience, Boris Johnson hopes we will go away, or at least divert our efforts from growing support for Scottish independence.

My research organisation, Progress Scotland, has shown that about a fifth of voters are undecided and open-minded on Scottish independence.

The recent excellent SNP broadcast featured people like this who have been changing their minds and we should have more doorstep campaign materials on this theme.

In truth, there is no alternative plan to deliver independence – it will only happen when a clear majority want it to happen. The First Minister is right to push for a referendum, and we will still need to win the Scottish parliamentary elections next year.

I expect SNP members will support that at the SNP spring conference. It would be hugely positive for the SNP to debate and vote for this strategy, so there can be a unity of focus and purpose.