Separating from the UK would be a folly that would hit the most deprived communities hardest.
It’s the last thing our country needs as we cope with Covid and the Tories’ reckless Brexit.
In light of these hard facts, you would think SNP politicians would have second thoughts and put their constituents ahead of separation.
But no, the SNP is using precious parliamentary time for a Referendum Bill, with Constitution Secretary Mike Russell suggesting there could be a second divisive referendum before Christmas.
Has he not noticed we’re in the midst of a pandemic that is costing lives and livelihoods?
Nicola Sturgeon accused of putting SNP before pandemic in plans for Indyref by Christmas
The Scottish Conservative leader will use a speech on Monday to hit back at the SNP plan for independence which the party claims could see a referendum before Christmas
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However, Scottish Secretary Alister Jack made clear ministers would be breaking the law if the SNP led administration decided to hold another vote without express permission.
Speaking this morning, Mr Jack said: “I m afraid the constitution is a reserved matter, it would be an illegal referendum, let s be clear about that.
He stressed now was not the time for another vote on the constitution in Scotland adding senior figures in the Yes campaign said the vote was once in a generation .
He added: We can t go into a process of neverendums until eventually, they get one that they win, that s not what responsible government is about.
Focus on vaccine rollout, not independence, Scottish Government to be told thecourier.co.uk - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from thecourier.co.uk Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.
It s more important than ever that we continue to engage with the EU institutions and member states and we re determined we will continue our close ties with our EU neighbours with whom we have such close social, political and economic relationships, he said. The commitment is being delivered in a range of ways, including using the network of offices in Europe, Berlin, Brussels, Dublin and Paris who work to promote Scottish interests.
Mr Russell said this would also cover areas like democracy, equality and the rule of law as we pave the way for Scotland s return to the EU as an equal, independent member state”.