Why UK’s handling of Covid may make indyref2 inevitable – Angus Robertson

A new opinion poll suggests the next Scottish election could see a big majority of pro-independence MSPs, writes Angus Robertson.

The UK's Government's handling of the coronavirus pandemic may have boosted support for Scottish independence (Picture: Lisa Ferguson)

Opinion polls take the current temperature of the country, and recent results in Scotland make for very interesting reading.

According to the latest findings by the pollster Panelbase, support for Scottish independence is now at 52 per cent.

The same poll taken between 1 and 5 May asked some very interesting questions like: “Does the handling of the coronavirus crisis by Boris Johnson and the UK Government make you more convinced or less convinced that Scotland is safer if it remains part of the UK?”

Only 20 per cent were more convinced, while 59 per cent were less convinced.

Meanwhile, there was a striking difference when people were asked “Does the handling of the coronavirus crisis by Nicola Sturgeon and the Scottish Government make you feel more confident or less confident that Scotland will be well-governed if it becomes an independent country?”

Some 59 per cent were more confident, while only 22 per cent were less confident.

Less than one year remains until the next Scottish Parliament elections, but the polling support for the SNP remains remarkably strong.

According to the Panelbase findings for the top blog site “Scotland Goes Pop”, the SNP is set for a huge majority at Holyrood, including victory in every single Edinburgh and Lothian constituency.

The poll projects a 60-40 per cent majority for pro-independence MSPs in the Scottish Parliament which would make the next independence referendum inevitable.

Only by securing a 2021 majority for independence will the vote go ahead.

These poll numbers are hugely encouraging, but they are still only an opinion poll. The poll that really matters will be held on 6 May 2021.

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