SNP in independence referendum call over second Brexit vote

Scotland has to have the right to vote on independence for a second time should there be a similar renewed vote on Brexit, the Westminster leader of the SNP has said.

Ian Blackford said the country should not be forced into accepting the result of any second Brexit referendum should Scotland again vote to remain but the majority of the UK vote to leave.

Nearly 52% of those voting in the UK cast their ballot to leave in the 2016 referendum, but all 32 voting areas in Scotland had a majority for remain.

Mr Blackford told the Observer: “We have to have the protection of knowing that if the UK has a second vote [on Brexit] and we end up in the same situation as we had in 2016, we would be able to determine our own future.

“That would be only right and proper.

“There has to be the right for Scotland to call a second referendum on independence.”

The SNP conference starts on Sunday in Glasgow.